Memory Problem Treatment

When memory loss prevents us from performing daily tasks and our accustomed roles in life, it becomes a health concern that needs further evaluation by healthcare professionals.

What memory problems are an expected part of normal aging?

Simple forgetfulness (the “missing keys”) and delay or slowing in recalling names, dates, and events can be part of the normal process of aging. There are multiple memory processes, including learning new information, recalling information, and recognizing familiar information. Each of these processes can get disrupted, leading to the experience of forgetting. There are also different types of memory, each of which can be affected differently by normal aging as shown below.

Preserved memory functions

• Remote memory (ability to remember events from years ago)
• Procedural memory (performing tasks)
• Semantic recall (general knowledge)

Declining memory functions

• Learning new information
• Recalling new information (takes longer to learn something new and to recall it)