By analyzing the symptom descriptions and pathogenesis of ‘dementia’and ‘forgetfulness’ in ancient medical books

this article reveals the evolvement and development of the name of dementia in traditional Chinese medicine（ TCM）. We think the name of‘dementia’and‘forgetfulness’ in TCM had a broader meaning

which covered mild cognitive disorder

mild dementia

and moderately to severe dementia with mental disorders in modern medical perception. Naming ‘forgetfulness’ as a TCM’s term for mild cognitive disorder and early stage of dementia will benefit TCM research in etiology

pathogenesis and treatment of mild cognitive disorder

and improve the efficacy of TCM dementia prevention and treatment.