Forgetfulness

Forgetfulness

In our fast-paced, information-saturated world, forgetfulness has become a common effect. Forgetfulness is a questionable topic, much beyond the simple act of forgetting. The complex workings of our brain are influenced by lifestyle, health, emotional states, and age-related issues.

"Knowing Forgetfulness" explores the science, psychology, and everyday impacts of memory lapses. This book demystifies the reasons behind forgetfulness and provides insights into how it affects our lives and relationships. Through complete knowing, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and develop strategies to strengthen memory and maintain mental clarity.

This knowledge will equip readers with practical tools, from lifestyle adjustments to cognitive techniques, to enhance memory retention. This also guides how to address and manage serious memory problems with confidence and hope. Understand how memory works, why it sometimes falters, and how you can regain control. You can transform forgetfulness from a source of frustration into an opportunity for self-improvement and growth.

Absentmindedness is a type of forgetfulness that happens when you don't pay close attention to something. It can cause you to forget where you put something, forget to do something at a certain time, or have trouble remembering recent events. 

Some signs of absentmindedness include:

• Forgetting where you put something 
• Forgetting to do something at a certain time 
• Forgetting details of conversations or recent events 
• Losing your way in familiar environments 
• Unknowingly telling the same story or anecdote 

 

Absentmindedness can be caused by several things, including Boredom, Sleepiness, Rumination, Distraction, and Preoccupation with your internal monologue. 

To help with absentmindedness, you can try:

• Making lists
• Setting alarms
• Putting things back in the same place
• Creating new routines and habits
• Slowing down and delegating
• Avoiding multitasking
• Meditating and lowering anxiety levels 

 

If you're concerned about forgetfulness, you can make an appointment with your primary care provider. Sudden memory loss or confusion could be a sign of a more serious problem. 

In the field of psychology, absent-mindedness is a mental state wherein a person is forgetfully inattentive. It is the opposite mental state of mindfulness. Absentmindedness is often caused by things such as boredom, sleepiness, rumination, distraction, or preoccupation with one's internal monologue.

Why am I so forgetful and absent-minded?

Common causes
Depression, anxiety, and stress – “These are common causes of forgetfulness,”. “Stress and mood disturbances can act as a distraction and make it difficult to focus, which can lead to memory problems.” Forgetfulness and clumsiness can be related to health issues, medication side effects, or many other potential causes. Most of the time, being clumsier than usual is related to mind distraction.

 

Why am I getting forgetful and clumsy?

If you are wondering why you've been so clumsy lately, dropping things, tripping, or becoming forgetful, it could be related to health issues, medication side effects, or many other potential causes. Most of the time, being clumsier than usual is related to distraction or lack of sleep.

 

Can anxiety cause absent-mindedness?

Stress, anxiety, or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and other symptoms that disrupt daily activities.

 

What is the cause of forgetfulness?

No matter what your age, several underlying causes can bring about memory problems. Forgetfulness can arise from stress, depression, lack of sleep, or thyroid problems. Other causes include side effects from certain medicines, an unhealthy diet or not having enough fluids in your body (dehydration).

 

Why am I smart but absent minded?

Absent-mindedness can also be correlated to those with schizoid personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Most individuals who are absent-minded are not unintelligent. They usually have high IQs, are highly creative, and tend to be on the intellectual side

 

How do you fix a forgetful mind?

Tips for dealing with forgetfulness

1.    Learn a new skill.

2.    Follow a daily routine.

3.    Plan tasks, make to-do lists, and use memory tools such as calendars and notes.

4.    Put your wallet or purse, keys, phone, and glasses in the same place each day.

5.    Stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body.

How to cure absent-mindedness?

Solving Absentmindedness

1.    Simplify your life. ...

2.    Get proper rest and nutrition so you are in a well-rested frame of mind.

3.    Keep to a schedule. ...

4.    Get plenty of exercise, both physical and mental. ...

5.    Keep items that you use every day in the same place all the time.

What causes a foggy brain?

Depression, anxiety, stress, drugs (legal or illegal) or alcohol, insomnia, ageing, jet lag, Lyme disease, antihistamines, lupus, hormonal changes during pregnancy, too much screen time … all have been associated with brain fog. One of the most common is menopause.

 

How to stop forgetting things?

Memory loss: 7 tips to improve your memory

1.    Be physically active every day. Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. ...

2.    Stay mentally active. ...

3.    Spend time with others. ...

4.    Stay organised. ...

5.    Sleep well. ...

6.    Eat a healthy diet. ...

7.    Manage chronic health problems.

 

How to clear brain fog quickly?

Treatment – ways to end brain fog

1.    Spend less time on the computer and mobile phone – remind yourself to take a break.

2.    Positive thinking reduces stress.

3.    Change your diet.

4.    Get enough sleep – 7-8 hours a day, go to bed at 10pm or no later than midnight.

5.    Regular exercise.

6.    Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drinking coffee in the afternoon.

 

How much forgetfulness is normal?

Forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing. How do you know when it should be a concern? Momentarily forgetting why, you walked into a room, or struggling to find the right word, are common experiences for many people, and they're usually nothing to worry about.

 

Why does my brain feel empty?

It can be triggered by severe stress, trauma, anxiety, a panic attack, or depression, and is often a coping mechanism for dealing with overwhelming emotions. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can help you understand and change the thought patterns that contribute to depersonalization.

 

Can forgetfulness go away?

The memory loss may be for a short time and then resolve (transient). Or, it may not go away, and, depending on the cause, it can get worse over time. In severe cases, such memory impairment may interfere with daily living activities.

 

Why am I losing my memory?

Memory loss can happen when memory-related brain areas don't work as they should. Commonly, memory loss is a symptom of other medical conditions. It's also important to know that minor memory difficulties, like taking longer to remember things, are typical as you age.

 

What is the 5-word memory test?

How Does the 5-Word Memory Test Work? Participants are given a set of 5 random words to remember for a short duration before being asked to recall them. This seemingly rudimentary exercise is underlined by intricate cognitive processes, and it can be a vital tool in the early detection of impaired cognitive function.

 

Is it OK to be absent-minded?

Absent-mindedness can lead to automatic behaviours or automatisms. Additionally, absent-minded actions can involve behavioural mistakes. A phenomenon called Attention-Lapse Induced Alienation occurs when a person makes a mistake while absent-minded.

 

Is absent-mindedness normal?

We all have bouts of forgetfulness or absentmindedness. Normal forgetfulness, AKA “where are my keys?” can be combated by using a variety of techniques to strengthen your memory and/or outsmart yourself. Some may surprise you.

 

What are the 7 common causes of forgetfulness?

7 common causes of forgetfulness

• Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep is perhaps the greatest unappreciated cause of forgetfulness. ...
• Medications. ...
• Underactive thyroid. ...
• Alcohol. ...
• Stress and anxiety. ...
• Depression.

How do I clear my memory?

Here are six tips for fading a memory:

1.    Identify the Memory. ...

2.    Feel & Process the Emotions. ...

3.    Reframe the Memory. ...

4.    Reflect on the Positives. ...

5.    Forgive Yourself, Out Loud. ...

6.    Create New Memories. ...

7.    Remove Memory Triggers. ...

8. Utilise Relaxation Techniques.

 

How to sharpen your brain?

8 Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

1.    Learn a foreign language. ...

2.    Try a new activity. ...

3.    Eat brain-boosting foods. ...

4.    Exercise. ...

5.    Get some sleep. ...

6.    Stay on top of your health conditions. ...

7.    Meditate. ...

8.    Connect.

 

Can depression cause absent-mindedness?

Depression has often been linked to memory problems, such as forgetfulness or confusion. It can also make it difficult to do basic things such as focusing on work or other tasks, making decisions, or thinking clearly. Depression tends to only impact short-term memory.

 

How to keep your memory sharp?

Genes play a role, but so do choices. Proven ways to protect memory include following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and keeping blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar in check. Living a mentally active life is important, too.

 

How to stop being careless and forgetful?

Here's a step-by-step guide you can follow to avoid making mistakes at work:

1. Optimise your work environment. ...

2.    Get clarity about expectations. ...

3.    Review previous work to identify patterns. ...

4.    Focus on one task at a time. ...

5.    Take regular breaks. ...

6.    Start your work before deadlines. ...

7.    Use organisational tools. ...

8.    Create a workflow schedule.

 

Is brain fog harmful?

The most common symptoms are feeling dazed and confused, headaches, thinking more slowly than usual, an inability to remember things or even tasks just completed, mental fatigue, and mood swings. If left untreated, brain fog may develop into early-onset dementia

 

Why is my brain so slow?

Brain fog may be caused by lifestyle choices or underlying health conditions. iStock Brain fog refers to experiencing a slower, more sluggish thought process. It can be caused by underlying health conditions or by poor lifestyle choices like a lack of sleep and exercise.

How to increase brain power?

Here are six things I recommend to my patients in order of importance:

1.    Exercise regularly. Exercise has many known benefits, and regular physical activity also benefits the brain. ...

2.    Get plenty of sleep. ...

3.    Eat a Mediterranean diet. ...

4.    Stay mentally active. ...

5.    Remain socially involved. ...

6.    Keep your blood vessels healthy.

 

What to eat to increase memory power?

 

Try these top “brain foods” for potential memory-boosting powers.

• Nuts and Seeds. Nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and peanuts as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are brain foods high in protein and omega fatty acids. ...
• Salmon. ...
• Beans. ...
• Blueberries. ...
• Dark and leafy greens. ...
• Lean Red Meat. ...
• Avocados. ...
• Tomatoes.

Why can't I think clearly?

Possible Causes

Some common causes include: A lack of sleep. Autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia. Diabetes and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).

Why am I so unfocused?

Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, emotional trauma, chronic stress, and attention disorders like ADHD are a few different conditions that can affect your ability to focus and will need professional help to manage.

At what age does forgetfulness start?

According to the Alzheimer's Society, normal ageing leads to most of the following, which people usually start to notice from their 40s or 50s: becoming a little more forgetful. Taking a bit longer to remember things. getting distracted more easily.

 

What is the 2-finger test for dementia?

What is the 2-Finger Test? At its core, the 2-Finger Test involves an examiner performing a hand gesture — typically interlocking fingers in a specific pattern — and asking the patient to replicate it.

 

How do I clear unwanted memory?

Tips to Fade a Memory

1.    Identify your memory. It might sound counterintuitive, but if you want to forget something, it's helpful to first remember it. ...

2.    Process your emotions. ...

3.    Find out what triggers your memory. ...

4.    Try substituting the memory. ...

5.    Practice a healthy lifestyle.

 

How to use the brain 100%?

 

10 tips to improve brain function and memory capacity

1.    Keep learning. ...

2.    Grab a good book. ...

3.    Get a good night's rest. ...

4.    Spend your free time wisely. ...

5.    Practice positive affirmations. ...

6.    Build an exercise routine. ...

7.    Stay active socially. ...

8.    Be creative.

 

How can I sharpen my memory?

7 ways to keep your memory sharp at any age

1.    Keep learning. A higher level of education is associated with better mental functioning in old age. ...

2.    Use all your senses. ...

3.    Believe in yourself. ...

4. Economise your brain use. ...

5.    Repeat what you want to know. ...

6.    Space it out. ...

7.    Make a mnemonic.

 

How do I reactivate my brain?

Rewiring your brain might sound pretty complicated, but it's something you can do at home.

1.    Play video games. Yes, you read that right. ...

2.    Learn a new language. Ever considered studying another language? ...

3.    Make some music. Music has several brain benefits. ...

4.    Travel. ...

5.    Exercise. ...

6.    Make art. 

Can memory loss be cured?

Many of these are treatable, but time is usually a key factor. That's why sudden amnesia always needs medical attention. Brain damage (and the corresponding memory loss) may become permanent without it. Progressive memory loss also may be treatable, depending on why it happens.

Memory loss

When to seek help

Several conditions — not only Alzheimer's disease — can cause memory loss in older adults.

Everyone forgets things at times. Perhaps you misplace your car keys or forget the name of a person you just met.

Some degree of memory loss, as well as a modest decline in other thinking skills, is a fairly common part of ageing. There's a difference, however, between typical memory changes and memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. And sometimes memory symptoms are the result of treatable conditions.

If you're having memory loss, talk to your healthcare professional to get a diagnosis and appropriate care.

Memory loss and ageing

Typical age-related memory loss doesn't cause a major disruption in your daily life. For example, you might occasionally forget a person's name, but recall it later in the day. You might misplace your glasses sometimes. Or maybe you need to make lists more often than in the past to remember appointments or tasks.

These changes in memory are generally manageable and don't affect your ability to work, live independently or maintain a social life.

Memory loss and dementia

The word "dementia" is an umbrella term used to describe a set of symptoms. These symptoms include changes in memory, reasoning, judgment, language and other thinking skills. Dementia usually begins gradually, worsens over time, and affects a person's abilities in work, social interactions and relationships.

Often, memory loss that disrupts your life is one of the first or most recognisable symptoms of dementia. Other early symptoms might include:

·        Asking the same questions often.

·        Forgetting common words when speaking.

·        Mixing up words — saying the word "bed" instead of the word "table," for example.

·        Taking longer to complete familiar tasks, such as following a recipe.

·        Misplacing items in odd places, such as putting a wallet in a kitchen drawer.

·        Getting lost while walking or driving in a known area.

·        Having changes in mood or behaviour for no clear reason.

Diseases that cause damage to the brain that gets worse over time — and result in dementia — include:

·        Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia.

·        Vascular dementia.

·        Frontotemporal dementia.

·        Lewy body dementia.

·        Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy.

·        A combination of several of these types of dementia, known as mixed dementia.

The disease process, known as pathology, of each of these conditions is different. Memory loss isn't always the first symptom, and the type of memory issue varies.

Mild cognitive impairment

This involves a notable decline in at least one area of thinking skills, such as memory. The decline is greater than the changes of ageing and less than those of dementia. Having mild cognitive impairment doesn't prevent you from doing everyday tasks and being socially engaged.

Researchers and healthcare professionals are still learning about mild cognitive impairment. For many people, the condition eventually worsens to dementia due to Alzheimer's disease or another condition that causes dementia.

For people with typical age-related memory loss, symptoms often don't get much worse. People with age-related memory loss also don't develop the spectrum of symptoms associated with dementia.

Reversible causes of memory loss

Many medical conditions can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms. Most of these conditions can be treated. Your healthcare professional can screen you for conditions that cause reversible memory loss.

Possible causes of reversible memory loss include:

·        Medicines. Certain medicines or combinations of medicines can cause forgetfulness or confusion.

·        A minor head injury. A head injury from a fall or an accident — even if you don't lose consciousness — can cause memory issues.

·        Emotional conditions. Stress, anxiety, or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and other symptoms that disrupt daily activities.

·        Alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder can seriously impair mental ability. Alcohol can also cause memory loss by interacting with medicines.

·        Too little vitamin B-12 in the body. Vitamin B-12 helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. Not enough vitamin B-12 — common in older adults — can affect memory.

·        Hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism, can result in forgetfulness and other symptoms related to thinking.

·        Brain diseases. A tumour or infection in the brain can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms.

·        Sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea that is not treated can affect memory. This can be improved with treatment.

Medical care:

If you're concerned about memory loss, seek medical care. There are tests to determine the degree of memory loss and diagnose the cause.

A member of your healthcare team is likely to ask you questions. It's good to have a family member or friend along to answer some questions based on observations. Questions might include:

·        When did your memory symptoms begin?

·        What medicines do you take and in what doses? This includes prescriptions, medicines you get without a prescription and dietary supplements.

·        Have you recently started a new medicine?

·        What tasks do you find hard?

·        What have you done to cope with memory loss?

·        How much alcohol do you drink?

·        Have you recently been in an accident, fallen or injured your head?

·        Have you recently been sick?

·        Do you feel sad, depressed or anxious?

·        Have you recently had a major loss, a major change or a stressful event in your life?

In addition to giving you a physical exam, your healthcare professional is likely to give you a question-and-answer test. These tests help judge your memory and other thinking skills. You may need blood tests, brain-imaging scans and other tests that can help pinpoint reversible causes of memory loss and dementia-like symptoms.

You might be referred to a specialist in diagnosing dementia or memory conditions, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, psychologist, or geriatrician.

The importance of a diagnosis

Coming to terms with memory loss and the possible onset of dementia can be hard. Some people try to hide memory loss, and sometimes family members or friends compensate for a person's loss of memory. Some people aren't aware of how much they've adapted to the changes.

Getting a prompt diagnosis is important, even if it's challenging. Identifying a reversible cause of memory loss enables you to get the right treatment. Also, an early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder is beneficial because you can:

·        Begin treatments to manage symptoms.

·        Educate yourself and loved ones about the disease.

·        Determine future care preferences.

·        Identify care facilities or at-home care choices.

·        Settle financial or legal matters.

Your healthcare team can help you find community resources and organisations, such as the Alzheimer's Association. These resources and organisations can help you cope with memory loss and other dementia symptoms.

Common causes of forgetfulness

Memory slips are aggravating, frustrating, and sometimes worrisome. When they happen more than they should, they can trigger fears of looming dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But there are some treatable causes of forgetfulness.

Here are common ones.

1.    Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep is perhaps the greatest unappreciated cause of forgetfulness. Too little restful sleep can also lead to mood changes and anxiety, which in turn contribute to problems with memory.

2.    Medications. Tranquillizers, antidepressants, some blood pressure drugs, and other medications can affect memory, usually by causing sedation or confusion. That can make it difficult to pay close attention to new things. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that a new medication is taking the edge off your memory. As shown in the table below, alternatives are usually available

Medications that may affect memory and possible substitutes

If you take these drugs…      ask about switching to one of these drugs

paroxetine (Paxil)---     another antidepressant such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), or a different type of antidepressant such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or venlafaxine (Effexor)

cimetidine (Tagamet)---        a different type of heartburn drug, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), or esomeprazole (Nexium)

oxybutynin (Ditropan) or tolterodine (Detrol, Detrusitol) ---

other medications for an overactive bladder, such as trospium (Sanctura), solifenacin (Vesicare), or darifenacin (Enablex)

 

amitriptyline (Elavil), desipramine (Norpramin), or nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor) ---        another type of medication, depending on why your doctor has prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant (neuropathic pain, depression, etc.)

3.    cold or allergy medication containing brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, or diphenhydramine ---    loratadine (Claritin) or other non-sedating antihistamine

4.    Underactive thyroid. A faltering thyroid can affect memory (as well as disturb sleep and cause depression, both of which can be causes of forgetfulness). A simple blood test can tell if your thyroid is doing its job properly.

5.    Alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with short-term memory, even after the effects of alcohol have worn off. Although "too much" varies from person to person, it’s best to stick with the recommendation of no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one a day for women. One drink is generally defined as 1.5 ounces (1 shot glass) of 80-proof spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.

6.    Stress and anxiety. Anything that makes it harder to concentrate and lock in new information and skills can lead to memory problems. Stress and anxiety fill the bill. Both can interfere with attention and block the formation of new memories or the retrieval of old ones.

7.    Depression. Common signs of depression include stifling sadness, lack of drive, and lessening of pleasure in things you ordinarily enjoy. Forgetfulness can also be a sign of depression or a consequence of it.

If memory lapses are bugging you, it’s worth a conversation with your doctor to see if any reversible causes are at the root of the problem. Something like getting more sleep, switching a medication, or a stress reduction program could get your memory back on track.

7 tips to improve your memory

Can't find your car keys? Forget your grocery list? Can't remember the name of the personal trainer you liked at the gym? You're not alone. Everyone forgets things once in a while. Still, memory loss is nothing to take lightly.

Although there are no guarantees when it comes to preventing memory loss or dementia, some activities might help. Consider seven simple ways to sharpen your memory. And know when to get help for memory loss.

1. Be physically active every day

Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. This might help keep your memory sharp.

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity, such as jogging. It's best if this activity is spread throughout the week. If you don't have time for a full workout, try a few 10-minute walks throughout the day.

2. Stay mentally active

Just as physical activity keeps your body in shape, activities that engage your mind help keep your brain in shape. And those activities might help prevent some memory loss. Do crossword puzzles. Read. Play games. Learn to play a musical instrument. Try a new hobby. Volunteer at a local school or with a community group.

3. Spend time with others

Social interaction helps ward off depression and stress. Both of those can contribute to memory loss. Look for opportunities to get together with loved ones, friends and other people, especially if you live alone.

4. Stay organised

You're more likely to forget things if your home is cluttered or your notes are in disarray. Keep track of tasks, appointments and other events in a notebook, calendar or electronic planner. You might even repeat each entry out loud as you write it down to help keep it in your memory. Keep to-do lists up to date. Check off items you've finished. Keep your wallet, keys, glasses and other essential items in a set place in your home so they are easy to find.

Limit distractions. Don't do too many things at once. If you focus on the information that you're trying to remember, you're more likely to recall it later. It also might help to connect what you're trying to remember to a favourite song or a familiar saying, or an idea.

5. Sleep well

Not getting enough sleep has been linked to memory loss. So, they have restless sleep and sleep that gets disturbed often. Make getting enough healthy sleep a priority. Adults should sleep 7 to 9 hours a night regularly. If snoring disrupts sleep, make an appointment to see your health care provider. Snoring could be a sign of a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnoea.

6. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is good for your brain. Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Choose low-fat protein sources, such as fish, beans, and skinless poultry. What you drink also counts. Too much alcohol can lead to confusion and memory loss.

7. Manage chronic health problems

Follow your health care provider's advice for dealing with medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, hearing loss and obesity. The better you take care of yourself, the better your memory is likely to be. Regularly review the medicines you take with your health care provider. Some medicines can affect memory.

When to get help for memory loss

If you're worried about memory loss, make an appointment with your health care provider. If memory loss affects your ability to do your daily activities, if you notice your memory getting worse, or if a family member or friend is concerned about your memory loss, it's particularly important to get help.

At your appointment, your provider likely will do a physical exam and check your memory and problem-solving skills. Sometimes other tests may be needed too. Treatment depends on what's causing memory loss.

Absentmindedness

Absentmindedness is a type of forgetfulness that happens when you don't pay close enough attention to something. It can cause you to forget where you put something, forget to do something at a certain time, or have trouble remembering recent events. 

Some signs of absentmindedness include:

• Forgetting where you put something 
• Forgetting to do something at a certain time 
• Forgetting details of conversations or recent events 
• Losing your way in familiar environments 
• Unknowingly telling the same story or anecdote 

 

Absentmindedness can be caused by several things, including Boredom, Sleepiness, Rumination, Distraction, and Preoccupation with your internal monologue. 

To help with absentmindedness, you can try:

• Making lists
• Setting alarms
• Putting things back in the same place
• Creating new routines and habits
• Slowing down and delegating
• Avoiding multitasking
• Meditating and lowering anxiety levels 

 

If you're concerned about forgetfulness, you can make an appointment with your primary care provider. Sudden memory loss or confusion could be a sign of a more serious problem. 

In the field of psychology, absent-mindedness is a mental state wherein a person is forgetfully inattentive. It is the opposite mental state of mindfulness. Absentmindedness is often caused by things such as boredom, sleepiness, rumination, distraction, or preoccupation with one's internal monologue.

Why am I so forgetful and absent-minded?

Common causes

Depression, anxiety, and stress – “These are common causes of forgetfulness,”. “Stress and mood disturbances can act as a distraction and make it difficult to focus, which can lead to memory problems.”

Why am I getting forgetful and clumsy?

If you are wondering why you've been so clumsy lately, dropping things, tripping, or becoming forgetful, it could be related to health issues, medication side effects, or many other potential causes. Most of the time, being clumsier than usual is related to distraction or lack of sleep.

Why am I getting forgetful and clumsy?

If you are wondering why you've been so clumsy lately, dropping things, tripping, or becoming forgetful, it could be related to health issues, medication side effects, or many other potential causes. Most of the time, being clumsier than usual is related to distraction or lack of sleep.

Can anxiety cause absent-mindedness?

Stress, anxiety, or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms that disrupt daily activities.

What is the cause of forgetfulness?

No matter what your age, several underlying causes can bring about memory problems. Forgetfulness can arise from stress, depression, lack of sleep, or thyroid problems. Other causes include side effects from certain medicines, an unhealthy diet, or not having enough fluids in your body (dehydration).

Why am I smart but absent-minded?

Absent-mindedness can also be correlated to those with schizoid personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Most individuals who are absent-minded are not unintelligent. They usually have high IQs, are highly creative, and tend to be on the intellectual side

How do you fix a forgetful mind?

Tips for dealing with forgetfulness

6.    Learn a new skill.

7.    Follow a daily routine.

8.    Plan tasks, make to-do lists, and use memory tools such as calendars and notes.

9.    Put your wallet or purse, keys, phone, and glasses in the same place each day.

10.                   Stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body.

 

How to cure absent-mindedness?

Solving Absentmindedness

6.    Simplify your life. ...

7.    Get proper rest and nutrition so you are in a well-rested frame of mind.

8.    Keep to a schedule. ...

9.    Get plenty of exercise, both physical and mental. ...

10.                   Keep items that you use every day in the same place all the time.

What causes a foggy brain?

Depression, anxiety, stress, drugs (legal or illegal) or alcohol, insomnia, ageing, jet lag, Lyme disease, antihistamines, lupus, hormonal changes during pregnancy, too much screen time … all have been associated with brain fog. One of the most common is menopause.

How to stop forgetting things?

Memory loss: 7 tips to improve your memory

8.    Be physically active every day. Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. ...

9.    Stay mentally active. ...

10.                   Spend time with others. ...

11.                   Stay organised. ...

12.                   Sleep well. ...

13.                   Eat a healthy diet. ...

14.                   Manage chronic health problems.

How to clear brain fog quickly?

Treatment – ways to end brain fog

7.    Spend less time on the computer and mobile phone – remind yourself to take a break.

8.    Positive thinking reduces stress.

9.    Change your diet.

10.                   Get enough sleep – 7-8 hours a day, go to bed at 10pm or no later than midnight.

11.                   Regular exercise.

12.                   Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drinking coffee in the afternoon.

How much forgetfulness is normal?

Forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing. How do you know when it should be a concern? Momentarily forgetting why you walked into a room or struggling to find the right word are common experiences for many people, and they're usually nothing to worry about.

Why does my brain feel empty?

It can be triggered by severe stress, trauma, anxiety, a panic attack, or depression, and is often a coping mechanism for dealing with overwhelming emotions. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can help you understand and change the thought patterns that contribute to depersonalization.

Can forgetfulness go away?

The memory loss may be for a short time and then resolve (transient). Or, it may not go away, and, depending on the cause, it can get worse over time. In severe cases, such memory impairment may interfere with daily living activities.

Why am I losing my memory?

Memory loss can happen when memory-related brain areas don't work as they should. Commonly, memory loss is a symptom of other medical conditions. It's also important to know that minor memory difficulties, like taking longer to remember things, are typical as you age.

What is the 5-word memory test?

How Does the 5-Word Memory Test Work? Participants are given a set of 5 random words to remember for a short duration before being asked to recall them. This seemingly rudimentary exercise is underlined by intricate cognitive processes, and it can be a vital tool in the early detection of impaired cognitive function.

Was Einstein absent-minded?

Thomas Aquinas, Isaac Newton, Adam Smith, André-Marie Ampère, Jacques Hadamard, Sewall Wright, Nikola Tesla, Norbert Wiener, Archimedes, Pierre Curie and Albert Einstein were all scholars considered to be absent-minded – their attention absorbed by their academic studies.

Is it OK to be absent-minded?

Absent-mindedness can lead to automatic behaviours or automatisms. Additionally, absent-minded actions can involve behavioural mistakes. A phenomenon called Attention-Lapse Induced Alienation occurs when a person makes a mistake while absent-minded.

Is absent-mindedness normal?

We all have bouts of forgetfulness or absentmindedness. Normal forgetfulness, AKA “where are my keys?” can be combated by using a variety of techniques to strengthen your memory and/or outsmart yourself. Some may surprise you.

What are the 7 common causes of forgetfulness?

7 common causes of forgetfulness

• Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep is perhaps the greatest unappreciated cause of forgetfulness. ...
• Medications. ...
• Underactive thyroid. ...
• Alcohol. ...
• Stress and anxiety. ...
• Depression.

How do I clear my memory?

Here are tips for fading a memory:

1.    Identify the Memory. ...

2.    Feel & Process the Emotions. ...

3.    Reframe the Memory. ...

4.    Reflect on the Positives. ...

5.    Forgive Yourself, Out Loud. ...

6.    Create New Memories. ...

7.    Remove Memory Triggers. ...

8. Utilise Relaxation Techniques.

How to sharpen your brain?

8 Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

1.    Learn a foreign language. ...

2.    Try a new activity. ...

3.    Eat brain-boosting foods. ...

4.    Exercise. ...

5.    Get some sleep. ...

6.    Stay on top of your health conditions. ...

7.    Meditate. ...

8.    Connect.

Can depression cause absent-mindedness?

Depression has often been linked to memory problems, such as forgetfulness or confusion. It can also make it difficult to do basic things such as focusing on work or other tasks, making decisions, or thinking clearly. Depression tends to only impact short-term memory.

How to keep your memory sharp?

Genes play a role, but so do choices. Proven ways to protect memory include following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and keeping blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar in check. Living a mentally active life is important, too.

How to stop being careless and forgetful?

Here's a step-by-step guide you can follow to avoid making mistakes at work:

1. Optimise your work environment. ...

2.    Get clarity about expectations. ...

3.    Review previous work to identify patterns. ...

4.    Focus on one task at a time. ...

5.    Take regular breaks. ...

6.    Start your work before deadlines. ...

7.    Use organisational tools. ...

8.    Create a workflow schedule. 

Is brain fog harmful?

The most common symptoms are feeling dazed and confused, headaches, thinking more slowly than usual, an inability to remember things or even tasks just completed, mental fatigue, and mood swings. If left untreated, brain fog may develop into early-onset dementia

Why is my brain so slow?

Brain fog may be caused by lifestyle choices or underlying health conditions. iStock Brain fog refers to experiencing a slower, more sluggish thought process. It can be caused by underlying health conditions or by poor lifestyle choices like a lack of sleep and exercise.

How to increase brain power?

Here are six things I recommend to my patients in order of importance:

1.    Exercise regularly. Exercise has many known benefits, and regular physical activity also benefits the brain. ...

2.    Get plenty of sleep. ...

3.    Eat a Mediterranean diet. ...

4.    Stay mentally active. ...

5.    Remain socially involved. ...

6.    Keep your blood vessels healthy.

What to eat to increase memory power?

Try these top “brain foods” for potential memory-boosting powers.

• Nuts and Seeds. Nuts such as walnuts, almonds and peanuts as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are brain foods high in protein and omega fatty acids. ...
• Salmon. ...
• Beans. ...
• Blueberries. ...
• Dark and leafy greens. ...
• Lean Red Meat. ...
• Avocados. ...
• Tomatoes.

 

Why can't I think clearly?

Possible Causes

Some common causes include: A lack of sleep. Autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. Diabetes and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).

Why am I so unfocused?

Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, emotional trauma, chronic stress, and attention disorders like ADHD are a few different conditions that can affect your ability to focus and will need professional help to manage.

At what age does forgetfulness start?

According to the Alzheimer's Society, normal ageing leads to most of the following, which people usually start to notice from their 40s or 50s: becoming a little more forgetful. Taking a bit longer to remember things. getting distracted more easily.

What is the 2-finger test for dementia?

What is the 2-Finger Test? At its core, the 2-Finger Test involves an examiner performing a hand gesture — typically interlocking fingers in a specific pattern — and asking the patient to replicate it.

How do I clear unwanted memory?

Tips to Fade a Memory

1.    Identify your memory. It might sound counterintuitive, but if you want to forget something, it's helpful to first remember it. ...

2.    Process your emotions. ...

3.    Find out what triggers your memory. ...

4.    Try substituting the memory. ...

5.    Practice a healthy lifestyle.

How to use the brain 100%?

 Tips to improve brain function and memory capacity

1.    Keep learning. ...

2.    Grab a good book. ...

3.    Get a good night's rest. ...

4.    Spend your free time wisely. ...

5.    Practice positive affirmations. ...

6.    Build an exercise routine. ...

7.    Stay active socially. ...

8.    Be creative. 

How can I sharpen my memory?

 Ways to keep your memory sharp at any age

1.    Keep learning. A higher level of education is associated with better mental functioning in old age. ...

2.    Use all your senses. ...

3.    Believe in yourself. ...

4. Economise your brain use. ...

5.    Repeat what you want to know. ...

6.    Space it out. ...

7.    Make a mnemonic.

How do I reactivate my brain?

Rewiring your brain might sound pretty complicated, but it's something you can do at home.

7.    Play video games. Yes, you read that right. ...

8.    Learn a new language. Ever considered studying another language? ...

9.    Make some music. Music has several brain benefits. ...

10.                   Travel. ...

11.                   Exercise. ...

12.                   Make art. 

Can memory loss be cured?

Many of these are treatable, but time is usually a key factor. That's why sudden amnesia always needs medical attention. Brain damage (and the corresponding memory loss) may become permanent without it. Progressive memory loss also may be treatable, depending on why it happens.

Memory loss

When to seek help

Several conditions — not only Alzheimer's disease — can cause memory loss in older adults.

Everyone forgets things at times. Perhaps you misplace your car keys or forget the name of a person you just met.

Some degree of memory loss, as well as a modest decline in other thinking skills, is a fairly common part of ageing. There's a difference, however, between typical memory changes and memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. And sometimes memory symptoms are the result of treatable conditions.

If you're having memory loss, talk to your healthcare professional to get a diagnosis and appropriate care.

Memory loss and ageing

Typical age-related memory loss doesn't cause a major disruption in your daily life. For example, you might occasionally forget a person's name, but recall it later in the day. You might misplace your glasses sometimes. Or maybe you need to make lists more often than in the past to remember appointments or tasks.

These changes in memory are generally manageable and don't affect your ability to work, live independently, or maintain a social life.

Memory loss and dementia

The word "dementia" is an umbrella term used to describe a set of symptoms. These symptoms include changes in memory, reasoning, judgment, language, and other thinking skills. Dementia usually begins gradually, worsens over time, and affects a person's abilities in work, social interactions and relationships.

Often, memory loss that disrupts your life is one of the first or most recognisable symptoms of dementia. Other early symptoms might include:

·        Asking the same questions often.

·        Forgetting common words when speaking.

·        Mixing up words — saying the word "bed" instead of the word "table," for example.

·        Taking longer to complete familiar tasks, such as following a recipe.

·        Misplacing items in odd places, such as putting a wallet in a kitchen drawer.

·        Getting lost while walking or driving in a known area.

·        Having changes in mood or behaviour for no clear reason.

Diseases that cause damage to the brain that gets worse over time — and result in dementia — include:

·        Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia.

·        Vascular dementia.

·        Frontotemporal dementia.

·        Lewy body dementia.

·        Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy.

·        A combination of several of these types of dementia, known as mixed dementia.

The disease process, known as pathology, of each of these conditions is different. Memory loss isn't always the first symptom, and the type of memory issue varies.

Mild cognitive impairment

This involves a notable decline in at least one area of thinking skills, such as memory. The decline is greater than the changes of ageing and less than those of dementia. Having mild cognitive impairment doesn't prevent you from doing everyday tasks and being socially engaged.

Researchers and healthcare professionals are still learning about mild cognitive impairment. For many people, the condition eventually worsens to dementia due to Alzheimer's disease or another condition that causes dementia.

For people with typical age-related memory loss, symptoms often don't get much worse. People with age-related memory loss also don't develop the spectrum of symptoms associated with dementia.

Reversible causes of memory loss

Many medical conditions can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms. Most of these conditions can be treated. Your healthcare professional can screen you for conditions that cause reversible memory loss.

Possible causes of reversible memory loss include:

·        Medicines. Certain medicines or combinations of medicines can cause forgetfulness or confusion.

·        A minor head injury. A head injury from a fall or an accident — even if you don't lose consciousness — can cause memory issues.

·        Emotional conditions. Stress, anxiety or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and other symptoms that disrupt daily activities.

·        Alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder can seriously impair mental ability. Alcohol can also cause memory loss by interacting with medicines.

·        Too little vitamin B-12 in the body. Vitamin B-12 helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. Not enough vitamin B-12 — common in older adults — can affect memory.

·        Hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism, can result in forgetfulness and other symptoms related to thinking.

·        Brain diseases. A tumour or infection in the brain can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms.

·        Sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea that is not treated can affect memory. This can be improved with treatment.

Medical care:

If you're concerned about memory loss, seek medical care. There are tests to determine the degree of memory loss and diagnose the cause.

A member of your healthcare team is likely to ask you questions. It's good to have a family member or friend along to answer some questions based on observations. Questions might include:

·        When did your memory symptoms begin?

·        What medicines do you take and in what doses? This includes prescriptions, medicines you get without a prescription and dietary supplements.

·        Have you recently started a new medicine?

·        What tasks do you find hard?

·        What have you done to cope with memory loss?

·        How much alcohol do you drink?

·        Have you recently been in an accident, fallen or injured your head?

·        Have you recently been sick?

·        Do you feel sad, depressed or anxious?

·        Have you recently had a major loss, a major change or a stressful event in your life?

In addition to giving you a physical exam, your healthcare professional is likely to give you a question-and-answer test. These tests help judge your memory and other thinking skills. You may need blood tests, brain-imaging scans and other tests that can help pinpoint reversible causes of memory loss and dementia-like symptoms.

You might be referred to a specialist in diagnosing dementia or memory conditions, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, psychologist or geriatrician.

The importance of a diagnosis

Coming to terms with memory loss and the possible onset of dementia can be hard. Some people try to hide memory loss, and sometimes family members or friends compensate for a person's loss of memory. Some people aren't aware of how much they've adapted to the changes.

Getting a prompt diagnosis is important, even if it's challenging. Identifying a reversible cause of memory loss enables you to get the right treatment. Also, an early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder is beneficial because you can:

·        Begin treatments to manage symptoms.

·        Educate yourself and loved ones about the disease.

·        Determine future care preferences.

·        Identify care facilities or at-home care choices.

·        Settle financial or legal matters.

Your healthcare team can help you find community resources and organisations, such as the Alzheimer's Association. These resources and organisations can help you cope with memory loss and other dementia symptoms.

Common causes of forgetfulness

Memory slips are aggravating, frustrating, and sometimes worrisome. When they happen more than they should, they can trigger fears of looming dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But there are some treatable causes of forgetfulness.

Here are common ones.

1      Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep is perhaps the greatest unappreciated cause of forgetfulness. Too little restful sleep can also lead to mood changes and anxiety, which in turn contribute to problems with memory.

2      Medications. Tranquillizers, antidepressants, some blood pressure drugs, and other medications can affect memory, usually by causing sedation or confusion. That can make it difficult to pay close attention to new things. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that a new medication is taking the edge off your memory. As shown in the table below, alternatives are usually available

Medications that may affect memory and possible substitutes

If you take these drugs…      ask about switching to one of these drugs

paroxetine (Paxil)---     another antidepressant such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), or a different type of antidepressant such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or venlafaxine (Effexor)

cimetidine (Tagamet)---        a different type of heartburn drug, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), or esomeprazole (Nexium)

oxybutynin (Ditropan) or tolterodine (Detrol, Detrusitol) ---

other medications for an overactive bladder, such as trospium (Sanctura), solifenacin (Vesicare), or darifenacin (Enablex)

 

amitriptyline (Elavil), desipramine (Norpramin), or nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor) ---        another type of medication, depending on why your doctor has prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant (neuropathic pain, depression, etc.)

• cold or allergy medication containing brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, or diphenhydramine ---    loratadine (Claritin) or other non-sedating antihistamine
• Underactive thyroid. A faltering thyroid can affect memory (as well as disturb sleep and cause depression, both of which can be causes of forgetfulness). A simple blood test can tell if your thyroid is doing its job properly.
• Alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with short-term memory, even after the effects of alcohol have worn off. Although "too much" varies from person to person, it’s best to stick with the recommendation of no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one a day for women. One drink is generally defined as 1.5 ounces (1 shot glass) of 80-proof spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.
• Stress and anxiety. Anything that makes it harder to concentrate and lock in new information and skills can lead to memory problems. Stress and anxiety fill the bill. Both can interfere with attention and block the formation of new memories or the retrieval of old ones.
• Depression. Common signs of depression include stifling sadness, lack of drive, and lessening of pleasure in things you ordinarily enjoy. Forgetfulness can also be a sign of depression or a consequence of it.

If memory lapses are bugging you, it’s worth a conversation with your doctor to see if any reversible causes are at the root of the problem. Something like getting more sleep, switching a medication, or a stress reduction program could get your memory back on track.

 

7 tips to improve your memory

Can't find your car keys? Forget your grocery list? Can't remember the name of the personal trainer you liked at the gym? You're not alone. Everyone forgets things once in a while. Still, memory loss is nothing to take lightly.

Although there are no guarantees when it comes to preventing memory loss or dementia, some activities might help. Consider seven simple ways to sharpen your memory. And know when to get help for memory loss.

1. Be physically active every day

Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. This might help keep your memory sharp.

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity, such as jogging. It's best if this activity is spread throughout the week. If you don't have time for a full workout, try a few 10-minute walks throughout the day.

2. Stay mentally active

Just as physical activity keeps your body in shape, activities that engage your mind help keep your brain in shape. And those activities might help prevent some memory loss. Do crossword puzzles. Read. Play games. Learn to play a musical instrument. Try a new hobby. Volunteer at a local school or with a community group.

3. Spend time with others

Social interaction helps ward off depression and stress. Both of those can contribute to memory loss. Look for opportunities to get together with loved ones, friends and other people, especially if you live alone.

4. Stay organised

You're more likely to forget things if your home is cluttered or your notes are in disarray. Keep track of tasks, appointments and other events in a notebook, calendar or electronic planner. You might even repeat each entry out loud as you write it down to help keep it in your memory. Keep to-do lists up to date. Check off items you've finished. Keep your wallet, keys, glasses and other essential items in a set place in your home so they are easy to find.

Limit distractions. Don't do too many things at once. If you focus on the information that you're trying to remember, you're more likely to recall it later. It also might help to connect what you're trying to remember to a favourite song or a familiar saying, or an idea.

5. Sleep well

Not getting enough sleep has been linked to memory loss. So, they have restless sleep and sleep that gets disturbed often. Make getting enough healthy sleep a priority. Adults should sleep 7 to 9 hours a night regularly. If snoring disrupts sleep, make an appointment to see your health care provider. Snoring could be a sign of a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea.

6. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is good for your brain. Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose low-fat protein sources, such as fish, beans and skinless poultry. What you drink also counts. Too much alcohol can lead to confusion and memory loss.

7. Manage chronic health problems

Follow your health care provider's advice for dealing with medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, hearing loss and obesity. The better you take care of yourself, the better your memory is likely to be. Regularly review the medicines you take with your health care provider. Some medicines can affect memory.

When to get help for memory loss

If you're worried about memory loss, make an appointment with your health care provider. If memory loss affects your ability to do your daily activities, if you notice your memory getting worse, or if a family member or friend is concerned about your memory loss, it's particularly important to get help.

At your appointment, your provider likely will do a physical exam and check your memory and problem-solving skills. Sometimes other tests may be needed too. Treatment depends on what's causing memory loss.

All About Forgetfulness

7 common causes of forgetfulness

Memory slips are aggravating, frustrating, and sometimes worrisome. When they happen more than they should, they can trigger fears of looming dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But there are some treatable causes of forgetfulness. Here are six common ones.

Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep is perhaps the greatest unappreciated cause of forgetfulness. Too little restful sleep can also lead to mood changes and anxiety, which in turn contribute to problems with memory.

Medications. Tranquillizers, antidepressants, some blood pressure drugs, and other medications can affect memory, usually by causing sedation or confusion. That can make it difficult to pay close attention to new things. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that a new medication is taking the edge off your memory. As shown in the table below, alternatives are usually available

Medications that may affect memory and possible substitutes

If you take these drugs…      ask about switching to one of these drugs

paroxetine (Paxil)------ another antidepressant such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), or a different type of antidepressant such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or venlafaxine (Effexor)

cimetidine (Tagamet)- a different type of heartburn drug, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), or esomeprazole (Nexium)

oxybutynin (Ditropan) or tolterodine (Detrol, Detrusitol), other medications for an overactive bladder, such as trospium (Sanctura), solifenacin (Vesicare), or darifenacin (Enablex)

amitriptyline (Elavil), desipramine (Norpramin), or nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor), another type of medication, depending on why your doctor has prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant (neuropathic pain, depression, etc.)

cold or allergy medication containing brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, or diphenhydramine, loratadine (Claritin) or other non-sedating antihistamine

Underactive thyroid. A faltering thyroid can affect memory (as well as disturb sleep and cause depression, both of which can be causes of forgetfulness). A simple blood test can tell if your thyroid is doing its job properly.

Alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with short-term memory, even after the effects of alcohol have worn off. Although "too much" varies from person to person, it’s best to stick with the recommendation of no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one a day for women. One drink is generally defined as 1.5 ounces (1 shot glass) of 80-proof spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.

Stress and anxiety. Anything that makes it harder to concentrate and lock in new information and skills can lead to memory problems. Stress and anxiety fill the bill. Both can interfere with attention and block the formation of new memories or the retrieval of old ones.

Depression. Common signs of depression include stifling sadness, lack of drive, and lessening of pleasure in things you ordinarily enjoy. Forgetfulness can also be a sign of depression or a consequence of it.

If memory lapses are bugging you, it’s worth a conversation with your doctor to see if any reversible causes are at the root of the problem. Something like getting more sleep, switching a medication, or a stress reduction program could get your memory back on track.

When to be concerned about forgetfulness

It’s common to forget things now and then, but here’s how to know when to call your doctor.

You were rushing to leave the house this morning and forgot — again — where you left your car keys. Or maybe you spent at least five minutes looking for your reading glasses, only to realise they were hanging on the chain around your neck the whole time.

You’ve been wondering if it’s time to worry. Are these common memory lapses or a health issue, like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

It’s always good to keep an eye on your health and ask questions, and while certain things are normal to forget, other signs should prompt you to call your doctor.

Normal memory issues

We’ve all had moments when we couldn’t remember something simple, like someone’s name, only to have it come to us later. 

“Memory slips like this are common,” “The key is that it comes back to you eventually and that you didn’t completely forget. If it’s harder to remember or think things through than it used to be, even when you give yourself all the time you need with no distractions, you may need to see your doctor.”

If what you notice falls into any of these categories, your memory is likely nothing to worry about:

Forgetting facts over time

For example, if it’s been a while since you’ve done complex math, it might be hard to remember how to do it. This is called “transience.” 

“Researchers speculate it may be the brain’s way of making room for new information or memories.”

Being absent-minded

Forgetting for a moment because you went into a room or misplacing items (like your car keys) in a common place is a sign that your brain didn’t secure the details, likely because you were distracted.

It happens to us all, especially if we’re particularly tired, busy or stressed. Try retracing your steps to jog your memory when this happens to you.

Not being able to retrieve a memory in the moment 

This happens when a memory is on the tip of your tongue. Also called “blocking,” it might happen if a stronger memory gets in the way.  

“When this happens, try to relax. Then, usually, the memory will come back to you.”

Forgetting minor details or having inaccurate memories

Find yourself remembering part of a memory but not all of it? Or maybe you get some of the minor details wrong. 

This is called “misattribution.” It can be frustrating, but be open to someone else’s recollection of a particular event and try not to get frustrated with yourself for forgetting.

Memories are subject to suggestibility, meaning that something you learn after creating a memory can change how you recall it. If this happens only once in a while, it’s not a cause for concern.

Memory issues that may require treatment.

People who have memory loss symptoms that affect their day-to-day function may have dementia.

“Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in people over age 65,” “More than 5.4 million Americans have Alzheimer’s, and the biggest risk for developing the disease is getting older.”

If you or a loved one has the following symptoms frequently, it might be time to talk with your doctor:

Memory problems that impair daily living

Forgetting things you just learned, needing to have things repeated frequently, repeating yourself frequently or needing memory aides and notes to remember simple tasks when you never had to before… it can be frustrating.

When your memory impacts your daily life, working with your doctor to find a diagnosis may lead to treatment that can help.

Getting lost in familiar places

This can include not being able to find your way through your favourite park, getting lost on your way to work or forgetting how you got somewhere.

“Though some people can be embarrassed to admit when they get lost in a familiar place, coming to your doctor about a problem like this can help you stay safe in the future”.

Misplacing objects in unusual places

Frequently being unable to find an object even after retracing your steps, or finding something in an unusual spot (such as your car keys in the refrigerator), may indicate a memory problem that requires working with your doctor.

When to talk to your doctor about forgetfulness

“While it can be hard to talk about, diagnosing dementia early can allow you to make plans for your future care with your loved ones,” says Dr. Finney. “It allows you and the people close to you to have a framework for making decisions.”

Some causes of dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease, are progressive, meaning memory loss symptoms get worse over time. But others can be fixed or stopped if caught early enough. So, if you or someone you know has noticed changes in your memory — especially if accompanied by other signs like challenges with planning and problem solving, difficulty with words and visual relationships, poor judgment, or mood changes — talk to your doctor. 

Absent-mindedness

In the field of psychology, absent-mindedness is a mental state wherein a person is forgetfully inattentive. It is the opposite mental state of mindfulness.

Absentmindedness is often caused by things such as boredom, sleepiness, rumination, distraction, or preoccupation with one's own internal monologue. When experiencing absent-mindedness, people exhibit signs of memory lapses and weak recollection of recent events.

Absent-mindedness can usually be a result of a variety of other conditions, often diagnosed by clinicians, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression. In addition to absent-mindedness leading to an array of consequences affecting daily life, it can have more severe, long-term problems.

Conceptualization

Absent-mindedness seemingly consists of lapses of concentration or "zoning out". This can result in lapses of short or long-term memory, depending on when the person in question was in a state of absent-mindedness. Absent-mindedness also relates directly to lapses in attention. In the context of memory, "absent-mindedness entails inattentive or shallow processing that contributes to weak memories of ongoing events or forgetting to do things in the future".

Causes

Though absent-mindedness is a frequent occurrence, there has been little progress made on what the direct causes of absent-mindedness are. However, it tends to co-occur with ill health, preoccupation, and distraction.

The condition has three potential causes:

1.    a low level of attention ("blanking" or "zoning out");

2.    intense attention to a single object of focus (hyperfocus) that makes a person oblivious to events around them; or

3.    unwarranted distraction of attention from the object of focus by irrelevant thoughts or environmental events.

Absent-mindedness is also noticed as a common characteristic of personalities with schizoid personality disorder.

Consequences

Lapses of attention are clearly a part of everyone's life. Some are merely inconvenient, such as missing a familiar turn-off on the highway, while some are extremely serious, such as failures of attention that cause accidents, injury, or loss of life. Sometimes, lapses of attention can lead to a significant impact on personal behaviour, which can influence an individual's pursuit of goals. Beyond the obvious costs of accidents arising from lapses in attention, there are lost time, efficiency, personal productivity, and quality of life. These can also occur in the lapse and recapture of awareness and attention to everyday tasks. Individuals for whom intervals between lapses are very short are typically viewed as impaired. Given the prevalence of attentional failures in everyday life and the ubiquitous and sometimes disastrous consequences of such failures, it is rather surprising that relatively little work has been done to directly measure individual differences in everyday errors arising from propensities for failures of attention. Absent-mindedness can also lead to bad grades at school, boredom, and depression.

Absent-mindedness in popular culture

The absent-minded professor is a stock character often depicted in fictional works, usually as a talented academic whose focus on academic matters leads them to ignore or forget their surroundings. This stereotypical view can be traced back as far as the philosopher Thales, who, it is said, "walked at night with his eyes focused on the heavens and, as a result, fell into a well". 

Measurement and treatment

Absent-mindedness can be avoided or fixed in several ways. Although it cannot be accomplished through medical procedures, it can be accomplished through psychological treatments. Some examples include: altering work schedules to make them shorter, having frequent rest periods and utilising a drowsy-operator warning device.

Mistakes and related phenomena

Absent-mindedness can lead to automatic behaviours or automatisms. Additionally, absent-minded actions can involve behavioural mistakes. A phenomenon called Attention-Lapse Induced Alienation occurs when a person makes a mistake while absent-minded. The person then attributes the mistake to their hand rather than their self, because they were not paying attention.

Another related topic to absent-mindedness is daydreaming. It may be beneficial to differentiate between these two topics. Daydreaming can be viewed as a coping or defence mechanism. As opposed to inattentiveness, daydreaming is a way for emotions to be explored and even expressed through fantasy. It may even bring attention to previously experienced problems or circumstances. It is also a way to bring about creativity.

Forgetfulness — 7 types of normal memory problems

Forgetting things? Memory problems are more common than you think

It's normal to forget things from time to time, and it's normal to become somewhat more forgetful as you age. But how much forgetfulness is too much? How can you tell whether your memory lapses are normal forgetfulness and within the scope of normal ageing, or are a symptom of something more serious?

Healthy people can experience memory loss or memory distortion at any age. Some of these memory flaws become more pronounced with age, but — unless they are extreme and persistent — they are not considered indicators of Alzheimer's or other memory-impairing illnesses.

Seven normal memory problems

1. Transience

This is the tendency to forget facts or events over time. You are most likely to forget information soon after you learn it. However, memory has a use-it-or-lose-it quality: memories that are called up and used frequently are least likely to be forgotten. Although transience might seem like a sign of memory weakness, brain scientists regard it as beneficial because it clears the brain of unused memories, making way for newer, more useful ones.

2. Absentmindedness

This type of forgetting occurs when you don't pay close enough attention. You forget where you just put your pen because you didn't focus on where you put it in the first place. You were thinking of something else (or, perhaps, nothing in particular), so your brain didn't encode the information securely. Absentmindedness also involves forgetting to do something at a prescribed time, like taking your medicine or keeping an appointment.

3. Blocking

Someone asks you a question, and the answer is right on the tip of your tongue — you know that you know it, but you just can't think of it. This is perhaps the most familiar example of blocking, the temporary inability to retrieve a memory. In many cases, the barrier is a memory similar to the one you're looking for, and you retrieve the wrong one. This competing memory is so intrusive that you can't think of the memory you want.

Scientists think that memory blocks become more common with age and that they account for the trouble older people have remembering other people's names. Research shows that people are able to retrieve about half of the blocked memories within just a minute.

4. Misattribution

Misattribution occurs when you remember something accurately in part, but misattribute some detail, like the time, place, or person involved. Another kind of misattribution occurs when you believe a thought you had was totally original when, in fact, it came from something you had previously read or heard but had forgotten about. This sort of misattribution explains cases of unintentional plagiarism, in which a writer passes off some information as original when he or she actually read it somewhere before.

As with several other kinds of memory lapses, misattribution becomes more common with age. As you age, you absorb fewer details when acquiring information because you have somewhat more trouble concentrating and processing information rapidly. And as you grow older, your memories grow older as well. Old memories are especially prone to misattribution.

5. Suggestibility

Suggestibility is the vulnerability of your memory to the power of suggestion — information that you learn about an occurrence after the fact becomes incorporated into your memory of the incident, even though you did not experience these details. Although little is known about exactly how suggestibility works in the brain, the suggestion fools your mind into thinking it's a real memory.

6. Bias

Even the sharpest memory isn't a flawless snapshot of reality. In your memory, your perceptions are filtered by your personal biases, experiences, beliefs, prior knowledge, and even your mood at the moment. Your biases affect your perceptions and experiences when they're being encoded in your brain. And when you retrieve a memory, your mood and other biases at that moment can influence what information you actually recall.

Although everyone's attitudes and preconceived notions bias their memories, there has been virtually no research on the brain mechanisms behind memory bias or whether it becomes more common with age.

7. Persistence

Most people worry about forgetting things. But in some cases, people are tormented by memories they wish they could forget, but can't. The persistence of memories of traumatic events, negative feelings, and ongoing fears is another form of memory problem. Some of these memories accurately reflect horrifying events, while others may be negative distortions of reality.

People suffering from depression are particularly prone to having persistent, disturbing memories. So are people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can result from many different forms of traumatic exposure, for example, sexual abuse or wartime experiences. Flashbacks, which are persistent, intrusive memories of the traumatic event, are a core feature of PTSD.

 

 

Absent-Mindedness and Memory Problems in Younger People

Forgetfulness is common as we age due to changes in the brain. Decreased blood flow and fewer hormones and proteins used to repair brain cells and advance neural growth is very common in older individuals. While there are many tricks and best practices older people can use to improve cognitive skills, some of it is out of their control.

But what if you are a younger person who struggles with memory problems? Maybe you’ve been called absent-minded or a “space cadet”. You forget your keys and your purse, or constantly seem to lose things. You may have great long-term memory, but struggle to remember things that happened just a few minutes ago. Is there something wrong with you? Or is absent-mindedness something that can be fixed? Here is what we know.

What Causes Absent-Mindedness and Memory Problems?

There are many different mental health issues and personality traits that cause a person to become absent-minded. Psychologists believe the primary causes are a low level of attention, which may be a form of ADHD. This occurs when a person zones out in the present moment and fails to listen or understand what is going on in that moment. Many children tend to do this if they are bored in class. Adults also do this when they are tired or under stress, or if they are disorganised.

 

People may also be hyper-focused on a single object. This makes them unaware of other things going on at that moment. For example, the individual may be thinking about a problem at work, which causes him to forget where he is when driving. This also occurs when individuals are under stress or if they are suffering from ADHD.

Finally, absent-mindedness may be caused by irrelevant thoughts that we have. A person may be focused on what he/she read in the news or an upcoming event while putting their keys down. Later, he cannot find his keys because he was not paying attention at that moment. Instead, he was focused on the news, his daughter’s birthday party, and other thoughts.

Absent-mindedness can also be correlated to those with schizoid personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Most individuals who are absent-minded are not unintelligent. They usually have high IQs, are highly creative, and tend to be on the intellectual side. They may be well-read, emotionally intelligent, and have a particular skillset. Their brains are just “on-go” at all times. They have a difficult time slowing down.

Tips to Improve Absent-Mindedness

Absent-mindedness can hurt our productivity, self-confidence, and relationships. It can be frustrating to constantly lose things, forget what people said, or scramble to catch up later. Thankfully, there are some best practices you can put in place right now to become more organised and improve your memory. Here are some top tips:

· Put Everything Back in the Same Place: Make a concerted effort to put everything back where it belongs. Create a new routine and develop new habits. It will be hard, but it’s entirely possible with the right mindset.

. Make Lists: Don’t count on your memory for everything. Write down lists of things to do or goals to meet. Cross them off as you go along.

· Set Alarms: Set an alarm for each item on your to-do list so you remember when to start the next one. This will also help to jog your memory if you accidentally forget something.

· Slow Down and Delegate: Feeling overwhelmed is often a result of doing too much. Pick and choose which activities you will do and learn how to say no. Delegate, if possible, to avoid burnout.

· Don’t Multi-Task: Multitasking is not as great as everyone thinks it is. Doing one thing at a time is much more effective. And your quality of work will improve too.

· Meditate and Lower Anxiety Levels: Absent-mindedness can be a result of high levels of stress. Find ways to minimise stress and take breaks. Meditation is also a must. This will help you get back to the present moment.

· Seek Help: Find a therapist or life coach who can help you organise your life. See if any underlying mental health issues are contributing to your absent-mindedness.

 

When should you worry about frequent forgetfulness?

We’ve all been there. You know what you want to say, but can’t remember the word. You forget the name of a favourite movie. You’re about to leave for an appointment, but you can’t find your car keys or phone.

Frequent forgetfulness or memory lapses often leave people worrying about dementia, diseases such as Alzheimer’s or other incurable, progressive conditions. But that’s not always the case.

 

Worried about your brain? > Learn how to keep it sharp

“Forgetting why you walked into a room on occasion, difficulty recalling the name of someone you just met, or having a word on the tip of your tongue that later comes to you is typically not concerning,” said Lyndsay Mentgen, APRN, with OSF HealthCare Illinois Neurological Institute. “However, if memory loss starts to affect daily functioning – for example, missing appointments or forgetting to take medications – further evaluation is recommended.”

Common causes

Many common conditions and even some substances can cause forgetfulness.

Depression, anxiety, and stress – “These are common causes of forgetfulness,” Lyndsay said. “Stress and mood disturbances can act as a distraction and make it difficult to focus, which can lead to memory problems.”
Medications – These can include, but aren’t limited to, over-the-counter sleep aids, allergy medications, overactive bladder medications, and pain medications (specifically narcotics).

·        Sleep issues – “Insomnia or untreated sleep apnea can affect thinking and memory skills,” she said. “Healthy sleep practices, treating underlying causes of sleep problems or being evaluated for sleep apnea might help these symptoms.”

·        Vitamin deficiencies or thyroid abnormalities

·        Excessive alcohol consumption

·        Chronic pain

·        Vision or hearing loss

“These problems can give a false impression of memory loss,” Lyndsay said.

When it’s more than just forgetfulness

When someone experiences forgetfulness, their initial fear may be dementia.

“A common misconception is that dementia is just a normal part of ageing,” Lyndsay said. “But dementia is a loss in function that happens earlier or faster than what we see in normal ageing.”

The most common cause of dementia over the age of 65? Alzheimer’s disease. Typical symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include forgetting recent events or conversations, repetition or getting lost in familiar places. People who have Alzheimer’s disease usually don’t recognise that they are having these problems.

Another common cause of dementia is cerebrovascular disease, or damage to the blood vessels in the brain. This damage can be due to strokes and many of the same things that cause heart disease, for instance, poorly controlled high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking.

While there is no way to reverse the damage that has been done, working to manage these conditions and healthy lifestyle changes can help minimise the risk.

“No matter the cause of dementia, when there is memory loss, safety is a primary concern,” Lyndsay said. “Monitoring how a person is managing their medications and finances and observing driving skills can help identify problems that could become early safety issues.”

What to expect

If you are concerned about forgetfulness in yourself or a loved one, making an appointment with your primary care provider is the first step. When you meet with your provider, having examples of your memory loss can be very helpful. You will also be asked about sleep habits, mood changes and physical changes such as dizziness, tremor or falls.

And don’t delay. Sudden memory loss or confusion could also indicate a more serious problem, such as a stroke or serious infection.

“Screening tests for memory and other cognitive skills are an important part of an evaluation, but these tests alone do not give a diagnosis,” Lyndsay said. “Findings of your physical exam, blood work and brain imaging are also considered. Further testing may be recommended.”

Whether it’s concern for yourself or for a loved one, having another person at the appointment can help you share needed facts.

“It can be extremely helpful to have a friend or family member with you to provide an outside perspective on changes they may have seen,” Lyndsay said.

Preventing memory loss and forgetfulness

Living a healthy lifestyle is important for brain health. Some ways that you may be able to slow memory loss and cut down on forgetfulness are:

·        Healthy eating – Lyndsay said the MIND diet is beneficial for brain health. The MIND diet incorporates the DASH and Mediterranean food plans, which encourage eating brain-protecting foods such as fish, chicken, nuts and green leafy vegetables while avoiding processed foods and foods high in sugar and saturated fat.

·        Exercise – Even low-impact exercise like walking 30 minutes a day, five times a week, can help.

·        Staying active cognitively – Try mentally stimulating activities like reading, playing games, solving puzzles or learning a new hobby. The more challenging, the better.

· Socialising (safely, of course) – Social isolation can cause unhealthy stress and lead to depression. Forming and maintaining strong connections helps reduce stress and improve mood.

“I would encourage anyone concerned about forgetfulness or any other change in their ability to function normally to see their primary care provider,” Lyndsay said. “Taking the steps to identify and manage reversible or treatable causes may improve memory and provide better health in general.”

Memory Problems, Forgetfulness, and Ageing

Older adults may worry about their memory and other thinking abilities, such as taking longer to learn something new. These changes are usually signs of mild forgetfulness — or age-related forgetfulness — and are often a normal part of ageing.

However, more serious memory problems could be due to mild cognitive impairment, dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, or other factors beyond normal ageing.

Memory changes with age

As people grow older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. As a result, some people notice that they don’t remember information as well as they once did and aren’t able to recall it as quickly. They may also occasionally misplace things or forget to pay a bill. These are usually signs of mild forgetfulness, not a serious memory problem.

It’s normal to forget things once in a while at any age, but serious memory problems make it hard to do everyday things such as driving, using the phone, and finding the way home.

Signs that it might be time to talk with a doctor include:

• Asking the same questions over and over again
• Getting lost in places you used to know well
• Having trouble following recipes or directions
• Becoming more confused about time, people, and places
• Not taking care of yourself — eating poorly, not bathing, or behaving unsafely

Talk with a doctor if you are experiencing noticeable changes in your memory. A doctor can perform tests and assessments to help determine the source of memory problems. Your health care provider may also recommend that you see a neurologist, a doctor who specialises in treating diseases of the brain and nervous system.

You may also wish to talk with your doctor about opportunities to participate in research on cognitive health and ageing.

• Tips for dealing with forgetfulness

There are a variety of techniques that may help you stay healthy and deal better with changes in memory and mental skills. Here are some tips:

• Learn a new skill.
• Follow a daily routine.
• Plan tasks, make to-do lists, and use memory tools such as calendars and notes.
• Put your wallet or purse, keys, phone, and glasses in the same place each day.
• Stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body.
• Volunteer in your community, at a school, or at your place of worship.
• Spend time with friends and family.
• Get enough sleep, generally seven to eight hours each night.
• Exercise and eat well.
• Prevent or control high blood pressure.
• Avoid or limit alcohol.
• Get help if you feel depressed for weeks at a time.

Mild cognitive impairment

Some older adults have a condition called mild cognitive impairment — MCI — meaning they have more memory or thinking problems than other people their age. People with MCI can usually take care of themselves and are able to carry out their day-to-day tasks. MCI may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease, but not everyone with MCI will develop Alzheimer’s.

If you’re experiencing changes in your memory or think you may have MCI, talk with your doctor. Learn more about the symptoms of MCI.

Dementia versus age-related forgetfulness

Read and share this infographic to learn about how to tell the difference between age-related forgetfulness and dementia.

Forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing. However, dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Dementia includes the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, learning, and reasoning — and behavioural abilities to the extent that it interferes with a person’s quality of life and activities. Memory loss, though common, is not the only sign of dementia. People with dementia may also have problems with language skills, visual perception, or paying attention. Some people experience personality changes.

There are different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and vascular dementia, and symptoms may vary from person to person.

What else can affect memory?

Memory problems can stem from factors unrelated to dementia or normal ageing. For example, medical conditions, such as depression or blood clots, can cause memory problems. These problems usually go away once the condition is successfully treated.

Factors that may cause memory problems include:

• Head injury, such as a concussion
• Blood clots, tumours, or infections in the brain
• Thyroid, kidney, or liver problems
• Medication side effects
• Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety
•  
• Alcohol or drug misuse
• Sleep problems
• Low levels of important nutrients, such as vitamin B12
• Not eating enough healthy foods

Major, traumatic, or stressful life events can also cause memory problems. For example, someone who has recently retired or who is coping with the death of a spouse may feel sad, lonely, worried, or bored. Stress and negative emotions are powerful. Trying to deal with such life changes and emotions leaves some people confused or forgetful.

These memory problems from negative emotions are usually temporary and will improve as the stress and emotions fade. Being active, socially engaged, and experiencing a sense of accomplishment by learning new skills can help with both memory and mood. If memory problems persist after a few weeks, talk with your doctor as this may be a sign of something more serious.

Finding the cause of memory problems is important for determining the best course of action. Once the cause is diagnosed, you and your doctor can determine the best treatment plan. People with memory problems should make a follow-up appointment to check their memory every six to 12 months.

A note about unproven memory enhancements or treatments

Some people may be tempted by untried or unproven over-the-counter drugs and other products that claim to make the brain sharper or prevent dementia. Be cautious of pills, supplements, brain training computer games, and similar treatments that promise to improve memory or prevent brain disorders. These might be unsafe, a waste of money, or both. They might even interfere with other medical treatments. Consult with your doctor before investing in any of these products.

Currently, there are no drugs or lifestyle approaches that can prevent Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. In the meantime, generally leading a healthy lifestyle, including controlling high blood pressure, being physically active, and making healthy dietary choices, can help reduce your risk of many chronic health conditions and may help reduce your risk of dementia.