Does ADHD forgetfulness improve with age?

PostedNovember 18, 2025

UpdatedJanuary 1, 2026

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

For many people living with ADHD, forgetfulness can be one of the most persistent daily challenges. The question of whether it improves with age doesn’t have a simple answer but recent research shows that while ADHD symptoms often remain, how people manage them can change significantly over time.

What the evidence shows

According to NICE guidance and NHS reviews, core ADHD symptoms including forgetfulness, disorganisation, and working-memory problems usually continue into adulthood and older age, though their impact often varies with life stage and support levels (NICE NG87, 2025).

A 2023 SAGE Journals review found that executive-function difficulties, such as poor planning and short-term memory lapses, persist across the lifespan. However, adults often learn compensatory strategies like using reminders, structured routines, or coaching that reduce the day-to-day effect of forgetfulness. In other words, the brain may not “outgrow” ADHD, but experience brings new ways to adapt.

Coping improves, even when symptoms persist

Research published in PubMed (2025) suggests that brain plasticity and behavioural interventions can help adults maintain function and resilience into later life. Many older adults with ADHD report improved coping through structure, therapy, or medication even when memory challenges remain.

NHS guidance also highlights that practical support (coaching, sleep hygiene, consistent medication reviews) can significantly reduce everyday forgetfulness and help sustain focus in midlife and beyond (NHS, 2025).

What about ageing and cognition?

Emerging studies show a possible link between long-term ADHD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) risk, but the evidence remains limited. Experts from the NHS Taskforce caution that while some adults with ADHD may experience age-related cognitive decline earlier, most maintain stable function when symptoms are managed and overall health is supported (NHS England ADHD Taskforce, 2025).

Late-diagnosed adults particularly women may experience years of unnoticed symptoms, but diagnosis and support at any age can lead to meaningful improvement in daily memory and focus.

Takeaway

ADHD forgetfulness rarely disappears with age, but how it’s managed can improve dramatically. With treatment, structured habits, and ongoing support, many adults find they’re better able to organise, remember, and plan than ever before. The key isn’t waiting for symptoms to fade; it’s learning strategies that work with your brain, not against it.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.