Various names for memory loss are amnesia and dementia. One of our biggest fears as we age is losing our mental facilities, and how to deal with family members who are experiencing such memory loss. Short term memory loss can be triggered by stroke, circulation, Alzheimer’s as well as poor conductivity in the brain. However, take heart that memory loss is temporary and can be improved or avoided.

What is Short Term Memory?

Short-term memory refers to memories which last for a few minutes, and have gone through some amount of processing by the brain as compared to our long-term memory where information can be kept for a long time due to it being able to be related with other things that helps us remember. It is usually of limited capacity, and absorbing new information causes the older information to be “forgotten”. Trying to communicate with those who have short term memory loss is frustrating but it is not inevitable that we will have to lose our memory.

Avoiding Short Term Memory Loss

1. Items can be maintained indefinitely in short-term memory by rehearsal: e.g. by repeating the information over and over again.

2. Repetition may also increase the probability that items in short-term memory will enter permanent storage in long-term memory.

3. Mental and physical exercises, your diet and nutritional supplements can help in avoiding short term memory loss.

4. Your body needs to have sufficient sleep in order to create links and connections in your memory. Hence, a minimum of 8 hours of sleep a day is recommended.

5. Your vision is an incredible resource for boosting your memory, with approximately 40% of the brain devoted to it. This is more than any other function of the brain!

6. Visit your doctor for regular blood tests, as they are Read More »