As you get older, chances are you'll sometimes forget a word, where you left your car keys, or the name of a neighbor you bumped into at the market. These small memory lapses happen. They're a normal part of aging -- just like creaky knees, wrinkled skin, or blurry vision.

When should I be concerned about forgetting words?

If you're frequently forgetting things that you always remembered before, that can be a red flag for mental deterioration or the onset of dementia. In general, if you are worried enough to ask yourself this question, you should speak to your doctor.

What causes you to forget words?

Stress, anxiety or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and other problems that disrupt daily activities. Alcoholism. Chronic alcoholism can seriously impair mental abilities. Alcohol can also cause memory loss by interacting with medications.