It's quite common, but doctors say they can usually distinguish between occasional memory lapses and something more serious like dementia or Alzheimer's.
"It's when their relatives or their significant other says you know you're being really forgetful. That's a red flag to us that it probably is a problem. When it's benign the person themselves who is being forgetful is usually their own worse critic," said Dr. Michael Batipps.
Neurologists recommend these proven tips to keep your memory sharp: stay active. It improves circulation which is good for blood vessels in the brain, get a good night's sleep, socialize with friends and challenge your mind with puzzles and games.