Forgetting small things now and then is a normal part of aging. You might forget a name, misplace your keys, or wonder about the door. It's also normal to take longer to remember things as you age. Alzheimer's disease is different — it is not a normal part of aging. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in older adults. Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects thinking and memory skills. Alzheimer's begins slowly, over many years. It can be mistaken for normal aging at first. But it is not a normal part of aging. It first affects the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. Over time, the brain changes get worse, and symptoms get worse too. People with Alzheimer's may have trouble remembering recent events or familiar names. They may get lost in places they know well. They may repeat the same question or not recognize family members. They may also have trouble speaking, reading, or writing. Some older adults have more memory trouble than other people their age. This is called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. People with MCI can still take care of themselves and do their normal daily activities. MCI may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. There is currently no proven drug treatment for MCI. If you're worried about forgetfulness, it helps to talk with your care team. Forgetting how to use your phone may be a sign of a bigger problem. The same is true if you forget how to find your way home. These can be signs of Alzheimer's disease or another serious condition. Your care team can check for changes in memory and thinking over time.