Q: I am 72 and suddenly feel less confident while walking outside. Is this normal ageing?

A: Balance can decline with age due to reduced muscle strength, inner ear changes, poor vision, sometimes Parkinson’s Disease or certain medicines. Fear of falling often follows. A balance assessment, vitamin D check and simple strengthening exercises can restore confidence.

Q: My mother is 78 and keeps asking what day it is. Is that dementia?

A: Occasional confusion about dates is common with ageing. Dementia is suspected when confusion becomes frequent and is accompanied by difficulty managing daily tasks, handling money, or recognising familiar places.

Q: My father with Alzheimer’s sometimes becomes suspicious of family members. Why does this happen?

A: In Alzheimer’s disease, changes in brain circuits affecting memory and perception can lead to paranoia or mistrust. The person may feel others are hiding things or........

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