Possible Dementia in Mom?

Hello -

My mom is 68 and just had a full physical and she is relatively healthy, no major health issues besides a bit of asthma.  She is a pretty happy person and lives a good life.  About a year ago, I noticed some forgetfulness, since then I pay very close attention to everything she says, behavior, just to see if there is an issue.  In the past year there has been maybe a half dozen moments, maybe she repeated herself, but nothing alarming, in fact if I wasn't looking for it, I am not sure I would have noticed.  Recently I was actually impressed by her ability to plan several events and just keep everything organized.  The past several months I started to focus on it less as things seemed fine.  Then recently on the phone, she asked me a question and literally 2 minutes later asked me the same question.  I could tell she was working in the kitchen while she was talking to me and perhaps she was distracted, but I typically ask myself "If I wasn't looking for an issue, would I have noticed" and I think this time, I would have noticed.  

I have not said anything to my mom as I don't want to create an issue or worry unless there really seems to be an issue.  With a completed full physical that showed no real issues (I am not sure her physician did any memory tests) I am not sure I should say anything.

What do you think is the best course of action?

Thanks

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

I think you should wait and see how things develop...being distracted in the kitchen may be the singular cause for your observation...if it is repeated under other circumstances, then you might start to worry, but there is no easy or certain way to diagnose very early dementia, so watchful waiting at this stage is the best, and hope for the best.