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Forgetfulness is epidemic among baby boomers. I'll bet it drives you crazy when you suddenly can't remember the names of people you know well or climb the stairs to get something, then stand in the middle of the hall trying to remember why you came upstairs.

Should you be worried? Is this normal? Is there anything you can or should do about it? Relax. It's usually just middle age. A little memory loss is normal as we grow older and the last thing an otherwise healthy, mid-life person needs to be worried about is Alzheimer's. One clue that you're okay is the fact that you're worried in the first place. In contrast, people with Alzheimer's can't put their finger on what's wrong and try desperately to hide their growing confusion.

Twenty years ago, being in your 60's was considered old. N0w, people in their 60's are insulted if you suggest they're getting on in years. You too can remain alert, active and mentally sharp by establishing your own memory protection plan.

First, have a complete check-up. Many potentially reversible medical conditions can be responsible for a faulty memory.

Second, keep your blood pressure under control. High levels can damage blood vessels that feed the brain as well as the heart and kidneys.

Last, check your B-12 levels. B-12 is important for efficient day-to-day function of the brain and deficiencies are common as we age.

Many medical conditions including sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, alcoholism, thyroid problems and diabetes can contribute to memory loss. Addressing these conditions can help control forgetfulness.

To fortify middle age memory, check your medicine cabinet. Painkillers, antihistamines, antidepressants and sleeping pills can affect memory function. If you take more than one medicine a day, drug interactions can include dizziness and memory loss. It's important to review all medications you take with your health care provider and this includes over the counter remedies and dietary supplements. Take the lowest possible effective dose of any drug and keep in mind that as you age, your metabolism slows down and drugs stay in your system longer. You may do fine with a lower dose and experience fewer side effects.

Women who are experiencing menopause don't have to suffer with forgetfulness, although in menopausal women, stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes and the distraction of hot flashes can sometimes lead to fuzzy thinking. The real problem here is poor concentration rather than memory loss. If you're menopausal and having trouble with your memory, talk with your doctor about medications that can help relieve some of the conditions that contribute to the inability to concentrate.

Whatever your condition or stage of middle age, regular exercise will keep you brain as well as your body in top shape. Thirty minutes or more of uninterrupted walking at least three times a week is the cheapest, safest and most effective medicine for good brain function.

Get a good balance of rest and exercise. Practice meditation and steer clear of unhealthy habits like smoking, alcohol and foods that don't nourish your body (aka "junk food").

You can also stay brain sharp by reading often, doing crossword puzzles, practicing a favorite hobby or craft or learning a new skill like playing a musical instrument. "Use it or lose it" applies to the brain as well as the body.

Isolated people are more likely to experience depression and anxiety that can interfere with concentration and memory, so stay in touch with friends and family and volunteer in your community. You'll do good work and stay" brain fit" at the same time.