Memory loss and forgetfulness

Healthy people can experience memory loss and forgetfulness at any age.

There are six memory problems that are considered normal:

• Misattribution. Misattribution occurs when you accurately remember only part of something and forget a detail like the time, place or person involved.
• Suggestibility. This is similar to misattribution. Suggestibility happens when your memory of something is altered by false information from another person or source.
• Transience. This is the tendency to forget facts or events over time.
• Absentmindedness. This type of forgetfulness happens when you don’t pay close enough attention.
• Blocking.  Blocking is the temporary inability to recall a memory.
• Bias. Your  personal experiences, beliefs, knowledge and mood affect your memories and perceptions when they’re being encoded in your brain. This means that when you retrieve a memory, your mood and other biases at that moment can influence what information you actually recall.

There are many treatable causes of minor, temporary memory loss and forgetfulness. Your overall health and environment are just a few. When you take steps to assess and treat these causes, you might find that you regain your memory.

Here are several common factors that can affect your memory:

• Lack of sleep. 
• Stress and anxiety. 
• Depression.
• Thyroid problems. 
• Vitamin B12 deficiency. 
• Alcohol abuse. 
• Medication. 

The same strategies that contribute to greater health and well-being also help you develop a strong mind and memory. By taking steps to prevent memory loss and forgetfulness, you’ll improve other aspects of your life as well.

Here are steps you can take to prevent memory loss and forgetfulness:

• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a balanced diet.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Build a strong support network.
• Keep learning.