memory issues at 49!

[TellySavalashairbrush]

I am becoming increasingly concerned at my lack of memory retention and wonder if it is normal, or a sign of something more concerning. I have started a work related course (Masters type level) and am really really struggling to retain much of what I am reading/studying. I confess I am not really enjoying the type of study I am having to do, basically in order to ensure I still have my current job (the same one I have done for years!). I literally read and forget almost instantly the information I am trying to learn. Both my parents had dementia, although this was not until they were in their late 70s/80s and I am scared that I could have early onset. I am pretty good at remembering day to day events, times, etc and was -I thought- decent academically, but I have never experienced anything like this before.
I should add I am a long term sufferer of anxiety, but this has never stopped me from doing anything in the past, I usually mask it quite well.

Perimenopause/ Menopause?

When I started HRT I was stunned at how sharp my brain felt again!

Brain fog from peri/menopause.

Agree. Look up brain fog and peri menopause.

I do that when I don’t enjoy the subject matter.

I did wonder Whippet. I have been on HRT for about 18 months, but stopped last month as I was concerned about increasing breast density and the risk of cancer. Having said that, I didn't notice a big difference study wise even while I was still on HRT tbh.

I agree that it could be the menopause. A couple of my workmates are going through the brain fog issues associated with the menopause.

If it's any consolation it does pass. At 62 I remember more than I did 10 years ago.

That's reassuring Rampant although I only have a year to pass this qualification and the way things are going, I might have to wait until my 60s before I manage to pass it!

That's my worry 4Paws! Its the most boring course ever. I prefer weeding the garden to doing it (and I HATE weeding).

I'm like this, I'm 48. When I was studying a couple of years ago I found it really difficult to retain the information, not helped by the fact I found it ridiculously boring. I think I learn better when I find it interesting to be honest. When I started my new job a year ago I had so much to learn my head was spinning, took me a long time to grasp everything.

I was like that at your age to the point my GP referred me for dementia test. I was fine - no dementia at all. "Just" menopausal. Now it's 10 years on, I've forgotten what my limber, agile youthful brain was like.

I also feel similar and did an online test and was in the 30th percentile for short term memory ! 😱
Doesn't help that I have dyspraxia which makes my working memory particularly crap anyway.
I don't know what the answer is, bit alarmed that it doesn't come back @awesomekillick !