Memory Loss and Confusion

Occasional forgetfulness can be part of everyday life, but persistent memory problems or episodes of confusion should be assessed—particularly when they affect independence, safety, or daily routines. In older adults, memory and thinking changes can have many causes, some of which are treatable or reversible.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide a consultant-led assessment to understand what is happening, identify contributing factors, and agree a clear plan for support and next steps.

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What Symptoms Might Look Like

You may notice:

• Increasing forgetfulness or repeating questions
• Difficulty finding words or following conversations
• Misplacing items more often than usual
• Trouble managing finances, medication, or familiar tasks
• Changes in mood, behaviour, or confidence
• Disorientation, getting lost, or confusion about time/place
• Family members noticing decline before the patient does

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Common Causes

Memory loss and confusion can result from a range of issues, including:

• Normal ageing versus mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
• Dementia (different types)
• Delirium (sudden confusion), often triggered by infection, dehydration, pain, constipation, or medication changes
• Depression, anxiety or poor sleep
• Medication side effects, interactions, or sedating medicines
• Vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B12/folate), thyroid problems, or metabolic causes
• Alcohol-related cognitive problems
• Sensory impairment (hearing/vision) contributing to confusion and withdrawal

When To Seek Urgent Help

Seek urgent medical attention if confusion is:

• Sudden or rapidly worsening over hours/days
• Associated with fever, new infection symptoms, severe headache, new weakness, or a fall/head injury
• Accompanied by severe agitation, hallucinations, or inability to stay safe at home

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How We Assess Memory and Confusion

Our approach considers physical health, medications, mood, function and the home situation—because cognitive symptoms rarely exist in isolation. Assessment may include:

• Detailed history from the patient and (with consent) a family member
• Cognitive screening and functional assessment (daily activities, safety, driving considerations)
• Medication review to identify drugs that may affect memory or alertness
• Review of mood, sleep, nutrition and hydration
• Physical examination and neurological assessment
• Investigations where appropriate (e.g., blood tests and imaging) to support diagnosis

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Support for Families and Carers

Families often carry the burden of uncertainty. We aim to provide reassurance, clarity and a structured plan—helping you understand what to watch for, how to reduce risks, and what support may be beneficial now and in the future.

Book an Appointment

If you are concerned about memory changes, increasing forgetfulness or episodes of confusion, our team is here to help.

Call 01296 678 800 or