Memory Disorders
 
Introduction:

Many people worry about becoming forgetful. They think forgetfulness is the first sign of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Some kinds of memory problems are serious but others are not. People who are worried about memory problems should see a doctor.

Table of Contents
1. Introduction    
2. Definition    
3. Types of memory    
4. Sign and Symptoms    
5. Treatment    
 
Definition:

Memory is the storing of information over time. A memory disorder can be defined as trouble in the registering of an impression, in the retaining of an acquired impression, or in the ability to evoke an impression.
  Types of memory:
  

Sensory memory: sensations perceived through sight, sound, smell taste and touch. Each of these senses is associated with a type of memory that allows us briefly to retain impressions of specific experiences.
Short-term memory: a temporary holding tank for information. As anyone who has tried to remember a new phone number long enough to dial it knows the storage capacity of this is very limited.
Working memory: This type of memory is used to hold information for a short time while the brain manipulates and processes it. For example, working memory is used in processes that require reasoning, such as retaining the meaning of several sentences to understand an entire paragraph or performing and retaining all of the steps of a mental calculation to arrive at a final answer.
Long-term memory: those that endure for more than 30 seconds. They can be classified as either declarative or procedural. Declarative memory involves facts and events learned through conscious recall: time, place, meanings of words, size, shape and color of objects, understanding of social customs. Procedure memory involves "how to" knowledge such as the specific patterns of hand and finger movements required to play the piano or the muscle actions necessary to ride a bicycle.

  Sign and Symptoms:  

Forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging.

  • It takes longer to learn new things
  • Can't remember information as well as they did
  • Lose things like their glasses

Some memory problems are related to health issues that may be treatable. For example, medication side effects, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic alcoholism, infections or blood clots in the brain or blood. Some thyroid, kidney, or liver disorders also can lead to memory loss. Emotional problems, such as stress, anxiety, or depression, can make a person more forgetful and can be mistaken for dementia. For instance, someone who has recently retired or who is coping with the death of a spouse, relative, or friend may feel sad, lonely, worried, or bored.

For some older people, memory problems are a sign of a serious problem.

  • Being unable to remember things
  • Asking the same question or repeating the same story over and over
  • Becoming lost in familiar places
  • Being unable to follow directions
  • Getting disoriented about time, people, and places
  • Neglecting personal safety, hygiene, and nutrition

  Treatment:  

People with some forgetfulness can use a variety of techniques that may help them stay healthy and maintain their memory and mental skills. Here are some tips that can help:

  • Plan tasks, make a "to do" list, and use memory aids like notes and calendars.
  • Develop interests or hobbies and stay involved in activities.
  • Engage in physical activity and exercise.
  • Limit alcohol use. Heavy or binge drinking over time can cause memory loss.



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