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Normal Forgetfulness or Dementia? A Family Guide
It can be worrying when a loved one starts to forget names, repeat themselves, or misplace things. Families often ask: “Is this just part of normal ageing, or could it be the early stages of dementia?”
While occasional lapses in memory are common with ageing, persistent changes that affect daily life may indicate something more serious. This is where structured tools, such as the AD8 Dementia Screening Interview, can help.
What is the AD8 Dementia Screening Tool?
The AD8 (Ascertain Dementia 8) questionnaire is a simple, validated tool developed at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Unlike many memory tests which ask the patient to answer directly, the AD8 is meant to be completed by a family member or carer who knows the person well.
This is because people in the early stages of dementia may not notice their own difficulties — but their loved ones often do. The AD8 captures these observations and provides a quick, reliable indication of whether further dementia screening is needed.
The AD8 Dementia Checklist for Families
If you’re concerned about a loved one’s memory, you as a family member can complete the checklist below. Answer Yes, a change or No, no change for each of the following:
| Question | Has there been a change in… (observed by you as a family member/carer)? |
|---|---|
| 1 | Judgement or decision-making? |
| 2 | Interest in hobbies or activities? |
| 3 | Repeating the same things over and over? |
| 4 | Learning to use tools, gadgets, or appliances? |
| 5 | Forgetting the correct month or year? |
| 6 | Handling complicated financial affairs? |
| 7 | Remembering appointments? |
| 8 | Consistency in thinking and daily conversations? |
Scoring:
- 0–1: May reflect normal ageing.
- 2 or more: Suggests possible cognitive impairment — further dementia screening is recommended.
Normal Forgetfulness vs Early Dementia
| Normal Ageing | Possible Dementia |
|---|---|
| Occasionally forgetting names but remembering later | Forgetting names of close friends or family and not recalling later |
| Misplacing keys now and then | Putting items in strange places (e.g., wallet in the fridge) |
| Sometimes needing reminders for appointments | Regularly missing important events despite reminders |
| Slow to learn a new phone or app | Unable to operate familiar appliances or manage bills |
| Still independent in daily life | Needing help with finances, medications, or personal care |
Why Families Should Use the AD8 Before a Private Dementia Test
For families, the AD8 provides a structured, evidence-based way to differentiate normal forgetfulness from possible dementia. It is quick (takes less than 5 minutes), free, and can guide whether to seek a private dementia screening for your loved one.
Benefits of a Private Dementia Test
If your loved one scores 2 or higher on the AD8, or if you’ve noticed worrying patterns, the next step is a specialist dementia assessment.
A private dementia test offers:
- Early diagnosis – identifying conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Lewy body dementia at an early stage.
- Comprehensive screening – including memory tests, brain imaging (MRI/PET), and blood work.
- Speed and convenience – avoiding long NHS waiting times.
- Peace of mind for families – clarity helps with planning, treatment, and support.
Private Dementia Screening in London
At our Memory and Brain Clinic in London, we provide:
- Same-day and one-week private dementia screening packages
- The AD8 questionnaire alongside specialist memory and cognitive tests
- MRI brain imaging and advanced blood biomarker testing (including Alzheimer’s-specific assays)
- Expert-led consultations with a consultant geriatrician specialising in dementia
Whether you’re seeking reassurance, a second opinion, or a complete diagnostic pathway, our private dementia test services are tailored to families who want answers without delay.
When to Seek Help
If your loved one:
- Scores 2 or more on the AD8,
- Shows ongoing memory loss, confusion, or behaviour change, or
- Struggles with daily independence…
…it’s time to arrange a professional dementia screening.
Book a private dementia test today and get the clarity and support your family deserves.
