Be in your dotage

Pro Tip 1/3

Aging Connotation

The phrase implies a natural decline in mental ability due to old age, not sudden changes.

My grandfather, being in his dotage, often forgets our names.

Pro Tip 2/3

Mental Sharpness

'Less mentally sharp' means having trouble remembering or comprehending things, not intelligence loss.

He's in his dotage now, so he struggles with new technology.

Pro Tip 3/3

Emotional Sensitivity

Use the phrase cautiously; it could sound negative or offensive to some people.

I wouldn't say she's in her dotage—she's just a bit forgetful.