Memory
Memory has many different aspects. When storing memory we are storing information. But, which information and how long we retain that information is determined by what type of memory we access. We use three main categories of memory; short-term memory, working memory, and long-term memory. All types of memory functions can weaken as we get older. For some of us these difficulties will cause us concern about the development of the first signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Memory problems can also occur due to other factors and conditions, including stress, depression, anxiety, head injuries and stroke. In addition to this, there are physical illnesses that could cause memory problems including kidney, liver or thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, chest and urinary tract infections, neuro-degenerative diseases as well as side effects of some medications. Sudden memory loss is usually the result of brain trauma and can be permanent or temporary. Symptoms of memory loss vary from person to person and may vary in intensity according to the cause and condition.
The difficulties that Memory Loss may present relate to which aspect of the memory system is affected. For Long-term Memory problems this may mean difficulties with storing, managing, and retrieving information. Short-term memory is responsible for storing information temporarily and determining if it will be dismissed or transferred on to Long-term Memory. A Problem with Short-term Memory gives the brain less time to successfully move new information to long-term memory which makes it more likely that the details of recent events will be forgotten. Working Memory problems can cause challenges with mental manipulation of information like not being able to use a mental "note pad" to hold information in mind long enough to finish a task.
Assessing Memory Problems is important as this will highlight which aspects, if any, of the memory systems are affected, and which strategies may be most useful to learn to manage or reducing the symptoms.
With support the difficulties associated with Memory problems can be managed and improved by using specific exercises and interventions, coping strategies and management techniques.
Memory has many different aspects. When storing memory we are storing information. But, which information and how long we retain that information is determined by what type of memory we access. We use three main categories of memory; short-term memory, working memory, and long-term memory. All types of memory functions can weaken as we get older. For some of us these difficulties will cause us concern about the development of the first signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Memory problems can also occur due to other factors and conditions, including stress, depression, anxiety, head injuries and stroke. In addition to this, there are physical illnesses that could cause memory problems including kidney, liver or thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, chest and urinary tract infections, neuro-degenerative diseases as well as side effects of some medications. Sudden memory loss is usually the result of brain trauma and can be permanent or temporary. Symptoms of memory loss vary from person to person and may vary in intensity according to the cause and condition.
The difficulties that Memory Loss may present relate to which aspect of the memory system is affected. For Long-term Memory problems this may mean difficulties with storing, managing, and retrieving information. Short-term memory is responsible for storing information temporarily and determining if it will be dismissed or transferred on to Long-term Memory. A Problem with Short-term Memory gives the brain less time to successfully move new information to long-term memory which makes it more likely that the details of recent events will be forgotten. Working Memory problems can cause challenges with mental manipulation of information like not being able to use a mental "note pad" to hold information in mind long enough to finish a task.
Assessing Memory Problems is important as this will highlight which aspects, if any, of the memory systems are affected, and which strategies may be most useful to learn to manage or reducing the symptoms.
With support the difficulties associated with Memory problems can be managed and improved by using specific exercises and interventions, coping strategies and management techniques.