"Something just doesn't seem right!" you say to yourself. "I forget things too sometimes, but it's like he just can't remember anything!"

Or maybe you've noticed other changes that are making you uneasy - like he is putting things in the wrong place. Or your wife, who knew her way around town for twenty years, now gets lost easily.

If you think your wife or husband may have a memory problem, you've come to the right place. You do indeed want to look into it further. The concern you have may turn out to be related to medications, work, depression, an infection, sleep loss, disease, or any of a number of things. Memory is affected by many factors. It is very important - for you and for your spouse - that you find out if there is a memory problem and then determine the cause. The first step to take is to obtain a complete medical evaluation. No matter what the physician finds, information is power.

Sometimes the cause of memory problems can be treated and resolved. However, when the cause turns out to be a disease for which there is no cure, such as Alzheimer's, knowing as early as possible can be invaluable. When such a disease is identified early, treatment can delay or lessen the worsening of symptoms. Early identification gives you more time to discuss together, and with other family members, how you want to prepare for the future, including legal and financial preparations.

If you are uncertain how to arrange or make sure your spouse gets a thorough evaluation, the Alzheimer's Association can help. They have experience with many others who have been in the same situation you are in. For immediate assistance, call...