If you’re worried about your own memory, you’re not alone. We know that millions of people are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. As we age, and we notice our brains not working as well as they used to, we wonder if we should be concerned.

Alzheimer’s is very difficult to diagnose. Memory issues can be caused by all sorts of things, such as stress, lack of sleep, vitamin deficiencies, or urinary tract infections. Your doctor can help eliminate other causes. Tell your doctor you are worried about your memory, and ask them to help eliminate possible causes. After all, if memory issues are being caused by something treatable, you want to start treating it.

But how do you know if you’re having memory problems?

You can find many memory quizzes online, but beware of false claims. No online quiz is going to give you an actual diagnosis.

Two Screening Tests From Reputable Sources

If you want to start with a free online quiz, make sure it’s coming from a reputable source. Here are two you might want to check out:

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s provides a simple dementia screening online quiz. You can take it on your own, and you can answer for yourself or for someone else. (Maybe you’re not worried about your memory, but about a friend or loved one.) It only takes 3-4 minutes, and you don’t need to sign up or share any information. It’s simply a short initial screening tool, but it can give you a quick idea if you should be talking to a professional or taking next steps. It can also tell you if you’ve been needlessly worried about your memory.

For a personal and more in-depth screening, try the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Memory Screening. You need to make an appointment, and the screenings are conducted one-on-one through Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype. Screenings take about 10-15 minutes, and the screener reviews results with you and can recommend next steps.

Still Worried About Your Memory?

As I said before, these online tests can’t actually provide a diagnosis. But they may be a good place to start, and they may even help you confirm that your memory is just fine. Remember, some memory issues are natural as we get older, and healthy forgetting is good for us.

If you’re still worried about your memory, talk openly and honest with family members and your doctor. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America also operates a toll-free helpline that is staffed by licensed social workers trained in dementia care. No question is too big or too small.