Is forgetting stuff cause for concern? Memory red flags...

Most of us forget names or where we parked from time to time - and that's no big cause for concern...

More frequent forgetfulness is normal as we age - but more than minor memory loss could be problem. Dr. Aaron P. Nelson, author of "The Harvard Medical School Guide to Achieving Optimal Memory," says if you forget something significant, like your normal commute home or how to operate a simple appliance in your home, you need to be evaluated. 

Severe or frequent memory loss could be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease or dementia, or it could indicate something more treatable like sleep apnea, depression or a nutritional deficiency. If forgetfulness starts to interfere with your day-to-day life, see a doctor.