WELL, THIS SHOULD BE COMFORTING:

When older people can no longer remember names at a cocktail party, they tend to think that their brainpower is declining. But a growing number of studies suggest that this assumption is often wrong. Instead, the research finds, the aging brain is simply taking in more data and trying to sift through a clutter of information, often to its long-term benefit.

Instead of saying “I’m having a senior moment,” try saying “I’m sifting through a clutter of information, often to my long-term benefit.” Or use the line I’ve always favored: “I’m a professor. I’m supposed to be absent-minded.”