Why is memory bad? Why memory deteriorates at a young age

Memory is one of the most important functions of the human brain, with which mental activity, intellectual and thinking abilities, the acquisition of new knowledge, etc. are inextricably linked.

That is why a lot of research is devoted to its study: physiological, biochemical, clinical, pharmacological and others. Functions related to memory are otherwise called mnestic.

Memory is a multifaceted complex process that includes many components: visual, auditory, gustatory, figurative, logical, symbolic, associative, olfactory, tactile, emotional, motor, visceral and a number of others.

Some of them, such as visual memory, are also present in animals; others, such as logical or associative, are specific to the individual. All of them together form the universal ability of the brain to fix, remember and extract information.

However, with a number of pathological processes in the body, memory functions may be subject to various changes. Violations in this case manifest themselves in different forms: development is possible (total loss of memory or complete loss of any of its fragments), (“memory deception” and its filling with false information), dysmnesia (partial disorder of the ability to memorize).

Among these disorders, dysmnesia is the most common; memory impairment can occur in a number of organic and functional disorders.

Mechanisms and causes of dysmnesia development

Memory impairment is due to many different pathological conditions, but the immediate causes of its decline can be summarized as follows:

• violations of oxygenation of the brain,;
• disturbances in the regulation of the activity of the central nervous system, its dysfunction;
• metabolic disorders in the brain tissues, in particular metabolic disorders of amino acids, phospholipids, zinc;
• (for example, with or severe);
• hormonal disorders;
• beriberi;
• side effects of drugs (sedatives, hypnotics, etc.);
• intoxication and poisoning;
• disorders of mental activity.

Often there may be not one, but several mechanisms of memory loss at once. If we talk about diseases that can cause memory loss, then there are a lot of them, in particular:

How it looks and feels

Memory impairment, as a rule, is not an isolated syndrome and is accompanied by all sorts of symptoms associated with the causative disease:

• with neuroses irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances may occur;
• with atherosclerosis – , ;
• with depression- loss of appetite, drowsiness, apathy, etc.

As for the symptoms of dysmnesia itself, memory impairment in it can be modal-specific and modal-nonspecific. In the first case, specifically any of the forms of memory suffers (for example, visual, associative, auditory), in the second case, all types of memory as a whole are violated. Such differences in symptoms depend on the volume and localization of brain disorders.

Dysmnesia usually interferes with the memory of recent events that occurred in recent weeks, months, or years. As for those situations that took place before the violation of the ability of the brain to fixate, the patient remembers them well and can often tell in detail and details.

Pathological memory loss should be distinguished from such common situations as elementary absent-mindedness, forgetfulness, inattention.

These phenomena can occur in perfectly healthy people, their occurrence is usually associated with banal reasons, for example, information overload at work (an ordinary vacation can correct the situation), lack of interest in the subject of memorization, etc.

Interestingly, in some pathological conditions, there may sometimes be a short-term exacerbation, memory enhancement. This happens, for example, in some manic states, alcohol or drug intoxication, epilepsy, etc.

However, as a rule, such episodes are short-lived and have the character of a short "flash", after which there is a "fading" and a slowly progressive decrease in mnestic functions.

Correct diagnosis and effective treatment

Since memory impairment usually occurs against the background of various diseases, then the treatment of dysmnesia in the first place should include the treatment of the underlying disease.

Of course, if the diagnosis is not fully specified, then this should be preceded by the necessary examinations: and, biochemical and hormonal blood tests, necessary examinations internal organs, vessels, etc. Also, with the help of special tests, the degree and severity of memory impairment can be investigated and evaluated.

Once the cause of dysmnesia is clear, you can proceed directly to treatment. At the same time, depending on the pathogenesis of the development of memory disorders in specific diseases, in addition to the general complex of therapeutic measures, the following can be prescribed:

• drugs to improve cerebral circulation(, Trental, Nimotop, nicotinic acid);
• metabolic, antihypoxic agents, antioxidants(Carnitine, Actovegin, etc.);
• detoxification therapy(intravenous infusions of infusion solutions, antidotes for poisoning);
• sedatives, antidepressants;
• vitamin therapy, etc.

Along with this, there are specific drugs to improve memory functions that can be used for any form of dysmnesia, regardless of the causes and mechanisms of development. First of all, this includes, of course, extensive.

These are drugs that have a specific positive effect on the higher functions of the brain: mental activity, memory, mental abilities, clarity of consciousness, processes of cognition and mental perception. Nootropics improve energy processes in the central nervous system, activate metabolism in central neurons, increase the resistance of brain cells to various extreme factors, and contribute to the restoration of brain tissue in case of damage.

The first drug from this group was synthesized in 1963, and its introduction into medical practice was a huge breakthrough in the treatment of many neurological disorders.

Currently, the group of nootropics includes many different drugs that differ in chemical structure and mechanism of action. Without going into details of the classification, we will briefly list those of the nootropic drugs that are most effective in the treatment of dysmnesia and other memory disorders:

Another group of drugs widely used to treat diseases that accompany forgetfulness are drugs containing phospholipids. The most important role of phospholipids in providing memory mechanisms was revealed relatively recently, and since then many similar drugs have appeared for the treatment of memory disorders: Memory Sharp, Lecithin, Phosphatidylserine, Memovit B12 and others.

The advantages of phospholipids include the fact that they have almost no side effects and have a positive effect also on a number of other organs: the liver, hair, skin, blood vessels, etc.

Finally, with mild memory disorders, you can turn to folk methods and diets. Some of folk remedies, such as the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree, have firmly migrated to traditional medicine, and dozens of different preparations are produced on their basis.

Of the other means that you can resort to: the use of chocolate, honey, nuts, olive oil, ginger, protein diet.

Prevention of memory disorders

Measures to prevent memory loss include, firstly, a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, regular physical exercise, memory training with the help of logic games and special tests - all this helps keep memory healthy for years to come.

Of great importance is the rejection of bad habits - drinking alcohol, smoking, etc. The important role of the correct regime of work and rest, avoidance, excessive is undoubtedly important.

Finally, one more essential condition- attentive attitude to one's health: timely examinations, as well as prevention, detection and treatment of causative diseases leading to the development of memory impairment.

We need memory throughout life. Just imagine, you have lost your memory, you do not remember anything. You wake up one day and realize that you don't remember your first name, last name, where you live, where you work, and so on. You don't remember anything. You can’t get to this point, engage in the development of memory and attention every day.

What can cause memory loss? What are the causes of memory loss?

Wrong way of life. People who smoke and drink alcohol often suffer from memory loss.

Improper nutrition and lack of oxygen. For good brain function, you need a balanced diet, vitamins and trace elements.

Experiences, lack of sleep, changes in the biological rhythm, physical and mental stress, all this can cause forgetfulness and absent-mindedness.

You are not interested and you do not know how to use the ability to remember. If you were not taught as a child, do it now.

Bad memory what to do?

A person by nature is very smart and developed, and in order for him to remain so throughout his life, he must develop himself every day and lead a healthy lifestyle.

You can develop your memory and mindfulness at any time, even if you have no time.

From birth to old age, engage in the development of memory. Some people think that if they retired, then they do not need to engage in self-development. No, you should always do it. Children rest for three months on vacation and also think that they do not need to study. It is necessary to study even in the summer, to develop, to read books.

Very often, pensioners forget everything on the go, put the kettle on to boil and forgot, went to the store and forgot what to buy, put down their jacket and don’t remember where.

Many people are given a good memory from birth, and some need to try to develop it.

If you train your memory and attention every day, you can achieve good results.

Got a bad memory? What to do with bad memory?

5 Causes of Bad Memory

Try to focus on one thing. If you are sitting in a meeting, do not be distracted from the person who is leading the meeting, do not talk to a neighbor or correspond on the phone, do not be distracted by trifles. In the evening, try to remember and recall the entire meeting to the smallest detail.

Proper nutrition is very important for brain function. Try to avoid snacking on the go and don't eat junk food, it's bad for your brain. Include in your proper nutrition the following foods: vegetables, fruits, honey, dried fruits, nuts, herbs, cereals.

Don't overexert your brain. If you feel tired, do not overexert yourself, give your body the opportunity to rest. A tired person perceives information poorly or does not perceive it at all.

Download your brain only useful information try to discard unnecessary and unnecessary information, it only clogs your brain.

Don't forget about outdoor activities. Active walks in the fresh air, better outside the city in nature are needed for the proper functioning of the brain, these can be different kinds sports or just active recreation.

Exercise 1

You need to go to the store and buy a certain list of products. You write down your list on paper and go to the store with it so as not to forget anything.

Try to write a list of goods on paper and memorize it. In the store, buy items from memory. If the list is large and you are afraid of forgetting something, you can take this list with you, but do not use it, put it in your bag and try to buy from memory.

Exercise 2

You met an old acquaintance by chance on the street or in a store. You started a conversation. In this conversation, try to study this person in detail and remember: what color and shape of the eyes, what face this person has, what clothes he is wearing, what he has in his hands, remember as much as possible. Try to remember verbatim your conversation. In the evening, try to remember your meeting and what you remember about this person, what you talked about, remember everything to the smallest detail.

Exercise 3

If you work and are busy all day, you can find time to read at lunchtime or in the evening before bed. After reading, try to retell what you have read. You can also find time for this, for example, when you go to the store, to a meeting at school, on your way home or on your way to work.

Exercise 4

On the way to work, you can memorize house numbers, returning from work in the evening, you tell these house numbers from memory.

You can just walk down the street no matter where to memorize the numbers of cars that pass by. In the evening, try to remember and tell these numbers of cars.

Exercise 5

This is a very simple exercise. When you go shopping, remember the prices of the items you buy. You can compare these prices with the prices of other shops.

Exercise 6

You are preparing a cake according to a new recipe. Try to remember it and make a cake from memory. Do not look at the recipe, try to memorize.

Exercise 7

If you walk the same route to the store or to work, change it, take different routes as often as possible and memorize something new.

You can see a beautiful tree, a beautiful fountain, an extraordinary building, beautiful building facades, and so on. After a while, remember your new route and walk along it mentally remember everything to the smallest detail.

Exercise 8

Learn poetry every day. Learn carefully without confusing words. Start with a quatrain, then gradually add volume and complexity to the verse. Recite poems everywhere: on the way to work, on the way to the store, on the way to the boss's office, and so on.

In the same way, you can learn a new song. You can hum it everywhere: in the kitchen, in the bathroom, while you are doing the cleaning, it turns out more fun and faster.

Exercise 9

Now let's see the exercises are more difficult. Look at the picture here the words are written: yellow (in blue), black (in green). You need to remember the first two lines, close the picture and write the words from memory with colored pencils or pens.

Check what you got. Now read and memorize the second two lines, close the picture and write from memory. Then read and remember the third two lines, close and write from memory. Now memorize all six lines, close the words and write them from memory. Check what you got. Repeat the exercise.

Exercise 10

In this exercise numbers are given, they are written in two different colors black and red. Look closely at these numbers and remember them. One minute is given for memorization. Close the numbers and write from memory everything that you remember in two colors black and red.

Check what you wrote, if there are a lot of mistakes, try to remember the first two lines first and then write them, then remember the second two lines and write them from memory.

If everything is correct, you can practice and write all four lines.

Now try to learn the opposite, first the bottom line, then the second from the bottom, and so on, and write them from memory. This exercise is a good memory training.

Exercise 11

Look carefully and remember the following picture, this picture shows animals, mammals, fish. One minute is given for memorization.

Now close the picture and write on paper from memory all the animals, mammals and fish in alphabetical order.

Write in which direction the animals are facing.

If you do not remember all the animals or in the wrong order, repeat the exercise.

Exercise 12

Look at the next pyramid, it consists of numbers, one digit is added in each subsequent line. First remember the first three lines, close the pyramid and write the numbers from memory.

Test yourself.

Now memorize one more line and write four lines from memory. Each next time add one line and remember.

Remember and write all the numbers of the pyramid in full.

Exercise 13

Look at the following picture, it is divided into two parts, circles are drawn at the top of the picture, and there are no circles at the bottom of the picture. Remember in which cells the circles are drawn, close the first picture and draw circles from memory in the second part of the picture. One minute is given for memorization.

Check what you got. Repeat the exercise.

Exercise 14

In this exercise, there are three columns with different words read and memorize them. One minute is given for memorization. Close the words, and write them on paper from memory in what order.

See what you got. If you wrote incorrectly, look again carefully and repeat the exercise.

Then look again at the words and close them. Write all the words in alphabetical order. Repeat the exercise.

The child has a bad memory. What to do if a child has a bad memory?

Some children grasp everything on the fly from birth, and some have to work out in order to achieve certain results.

Throughout the life of a child, everyone teaches: educators, teachers, parents. Parents play an important role in the education and development of the child, a lot depends on them. You can always help the child in any situation and every day.

My child has a bad memory, what should I do?

Walk with your child at any time of the year, play your favorite sports or just spend time actively in nature. The brain receives oxygen during walks, which is very important for improving memory in a child.

Proper nutrition is the key to healthy mental development. Include constantly in the menu: vegetables, fruits, herbs, dried fruits, nuts.

Do not overload your child with activities. If you see that the child is tired, let him rest, he will not remember anything anyway. Work with your child in the morning, after sleep, the child learns new information well. Read a book to him in the evening.

Engage in the development of memory and attention of the child. Include exercises to develop memory and attention in your classes. Do not scold the child if he does not succeed.

Exercises for the development of memory and attention

Exercise 1

Look at the picture carefully, cubes are drawn on it. Examine each cube with your child. What color are the cubes? What is painted on them? How are the cubes arranged? Then close the cubes, and let the child tell from memory what he remembered.

If the child did not remember everything, do not rush to move on to the next exercise, repeat this exercise again. It is very important that the child remembers as much as possible and correctly told.

Exercise 2

Look at the picture carefully, it shows different figures. Examine each figurine with a child. What color are the figurines? What is painted on them? Where are the figurines located? Then close the figures and let the child tell from memory what he remembered.

Exercise 3

Look at the picture carefully, it shows different figures. Examine each figurine with a child. What is in the picture? What color are the figurines? What figures are drawn? Where are the figurines located? Then close the figures and let the child tell from memory what he remembered.

If the child does not remember everything, do not rush to move on to the next exercise, this exercise is great, repeat it one or two more times. It is very important that the child remembers as much as possible and tells correctly.

Next time you can start with this exercise and then move on to the next one. Do not rush to do more, do quality work.

Exercise 4

Talk to your child constantly, the more he listens to you, the more he will concentrate on what you are talking about.

Show your child interesting new toys and be sure to say: “What is this?”, “What color?”, “What can be done with these items?”.

Let the child figure out what to do with these items.

Talk more to your child, he will hear you constantly and will remember.

Exercise 5

At home, you can show your child different objects, unusual items, such as a vase, tell:

1. What is painted on the vase?
2. What colors are present here?
3. What is the shape of the vase?
4. The child is interested in all this.
5. On the street in the summer, you can tell:
6. What flowers are blooming?
7. How many flowers? Describe in detail.
8. What birds live in your city?

Show them to your child. look beautiful houses and trees. The child, together with you, learns the world around him, he is interested in hearing and touching everything.

Exercise 6

For the development of attention, the game is well suited, find the object. Think of an object that is in the room and the child knows this object well.

For example, a bunny.

Describe the bunny in as much detail as possible. What is he? What size and color? What can you do with this toy? Etc.

If the child quickly guessed what was being said, take another object and repeat the exercise.

Try to play the opposite way, let the child come up with an object and describe it in detail, and you have to guess what kind of object it is.

Exercise 7

This exercise is interesting, fun and easy. It's called: "Let's look at each other." The exercise develops attention, memory and visual memory of your child. Your child will enjoy playing this game.

Let the child look at you carefully for a few seconds. Then he turns away and tells you everything he can remember about you. For example, what kind of hair do you have, hair color, eye color, description of your face, jewelry, what color are you wearing, and so on.

If the child did not say much or came up with something, do not scold him, play this game again. Explain to your child that there is no need to invent anything. Repeat the exercise, studying you, the second time the child will be more attentive than the first time.

This game is fun and interesting, play this game in reverse. Your child will draw conclusions from what you said and what he missed. You can speak these conclusions, delving into the details together.

Exercise 8

Often in recent years, children's books offer exercises for the development of memory. For example, a picture is drawn, the child looks and remembers what is shown on it. Two to three minutes are given for memorization.

Then the book is closed, and the child tells what he remembered. This is a simple task, but it trains memory well.

Perhaps the child did not remember much or inattentively remembered the picture. Play together. Look at the picture, close it and make up a complete story based on this picture. The child will listen to your story and try to remember more next time. Children love when adults play interesting and educational games with them.

Exercise 9

This is a memory exercise, we will develop observation, visual memory and attention.

Let's take five different items:

Have the child look at these five items for a few seconds. Then we close the objects with dark material, and the child tells what he remembered.

Then we open the objects and check whether the child told the story correctly or not.

Two people can play this exercise. Memorize and tell each other, swap objects, remove old objects and put in new ones.

Each next lesson, reduce the memorization time.

Exercise 10

Look carefully at the following two pictures and find the differences. This is an exercise to develop attention and memory.

Exercise 11

Look at the following picture for twenty seconds and close the picture, answer the following questions.

1. Who is in the picture?
2. What color is a goose?
3. What color are the legs of a goose?
4. What color is a goose's beak?
5. What is the goose wearing around its neck?
6. How many rings are on the goose's neck?
7. What color are the rings on the goose's neck?

Exercise 12

In this exercise, you need to find ten differences in the following pictures.

Exercise 13

Find the missing item in the following picture and explain why?

Exercise 14

Look at the picture in this exercise, it shows different vegetables. From the pictures you can compose a small poem. The poem is called "Garden".

First, read under each picture what is written and do not forget to look at the picture and remember what is drawn for each word. Then try to close the words and read the poem from the pictures.

This is a simple poem, it is remembered from the first time. The most important thing is not to memorize a poem, but to be able to read it from pictures.

Exercise 15

Look at the picture in this exercise, it depicts fairy tale characters. Based on these pictures, you can compose a fairy tale "Turnip".

Try to compose a fairy tale "Turnip" from the pictures.

If the child does not remember this story, read or tell him. Then ask the child to tell the story from the pictures.

Games to improve and train memory

Try games to develop phenomenal memory, attention, logic and general brain development. The ability to see the statistics of achievements and compete with other players, beat your own and other people's records, will make this way of memory development even more interesting.

Number Reach: Revolution game

An interesting and useful game "Numerical Coverage: Revolution", which will help you improve and develop memory. The essence of the game is that the monitor will display the numbers in order, one at a time, which you should remember and then play. Such chains will consist of 4, 5 and even 6 digits. Time is limited. How many points can you score in this game?

Game "Memory Matrix"

1. Develops memory capacity
2. Improves visual memory
3. Improves spatial memory

Immediately after the start, a field with several filled cells will appear on the screen. In 3 seconds, you need to remember which cells are painted over, and click on them when the field is cleared. With almost every successful round, the field expands. The more cells you need to remember, the more efficiently memory develops and more points are earned. The first results will be after 10 minutes of the game.

Game "2 back"

For memory development I advise such an exercise as the game "2 back". A sequence of numbers will be displayed on the screen, which you will need to remember, and then compare the number of the last card with the previous one. It's powerful memory and brain training, this is an exercise that is available after registration, are you ready? Then go ahead!

Memory comparison game

Another game that can be attributed to memory exercises is Memory Comparison. good exercise for the development of memory and speed of thought. At the beginning, a number is given that should be remembered, then the second is given, and you will need to answer a question that does not change during the game. Great game for brain training. Let's try to improve your memory with us!

Super memory in 30 days

Memorize the information you need quickly and permanently. Do light and simple memory exercises little by little throughout the day. Train your memory with dozens of exercises that will come in handy in Everyday life.

Development of memory and attention in a child 5-10 years old

The purpose of the course is to develop the child's memory and attention so that it is easier for him to study at school, so that he can remember better.

After completing the course, the child will be able to:

1. 2-5 times better to remember texts, faces, numbers, words
2. Learn to remember for longer
3. The speed of remembering the necessary information will increase

Other developmental courses

Speed ​​reading in 30 days

Increase your reading speed by 2-3 times in 30 days. From 150-200 to 300-600 wpm or from 400 to 800-1200 wpm. The course uses traditional exercises for the development of speed reading, techniques that speed up the work of the brain, a method for progressively increasing the speed of reading, exercises for memorizing what has been read, understands the psychology of speed reading and the questions of course participants. Suitable for children and adults reading up to 5000 words per minute.

Verbal counting

Learn how to quickly and correctly add, subtract, multiply, divide, square numbers and even take roots. I will teach you how to use easy tricks to simplify arithmetic operations. Each lesson contains new techniques, clear examples and useful tasks.

Brain Fitness Secrets

The brain, like the body, needs exercise. Physical exercise strengthen the body, mental develop the brain. 30 days useful exercises and educational games for the development of memory, concentration, intelligence and speed reading will strengthen the brain, turning it into a supercomputer.

Conclusion

Engage in the development of memory yourself and develop the memory of children. You can develop it on the way to work, on the way to Kindergarten, on the way to the store, at home and in nature. We wish you a great memory.

Causes of memory impairment

The brain is perhaps one of the most sensitive organs. For normal operation he needs a constant supply of oxygen and carbohydrates. As soon as these two important components are no longer supplied in sufficient quantities, the functioning of the brain will suffer, and this will primarily affect memory. One of the simplest reasons for its deterioration is an unbalanced diet and irregular meals. Therefore, sometimes it is enough to revise your diet so that the former ability to remember information returns.

memory and oxygen

Sometimes a situation arises when there is no shortage of carbohydrates, but there is a lack of oxygen, for example, if a person is little in the fresh air, and spends most of the time indoors. Without oxygen, it is impossible to oxidize carbohydrates and obtain energy from them, which is so necessary for maintaining a good memory. So, in addition to your menu, it makes sense to change your lifestyle in general - start doing gymnastics and walk more often to provide the brain with enough oxygen.

True, not everything is so simple. Oxygen deficiency in the body occurs with anemia. In this case, simple walks will no longer work. Anemia requires, firstly, finding out the cause of its appearance, and secondly, drug treatment. With anemia, along with memory impairment, other symptoms occur:

• heartbeat,
• paleness and dryness of the skin,
• dizziness, "flies in the eyes",
• crawling sensation in limbs.

memory and

The elderly are at particular risk. Everyone knows the expression "senile sclerosis", which means memory deterioration with age, although sclerosis has nothing to do with remembering information. Why do the chances of becoming forgetful increase with age?

It's all about atherosclerotic plaques, which are overgrown with blood vessels. Such a plaque reduces the lumen of the vessel, so less blood flows to the brain area, which means that it receives little oxygen and nutrients. As a result, nerve cells are exhausted and die. This process is called encephalopathy. If you do not start to fight it, then it can develop into dementia or senile dementia.

Additional risks of memory impairment are fat people, as well as in smokers and those who abuse alcohol, since atherosclerosis in such cases develops much faster. The problem also lies in the fact that people do not notice practically any symptoms, except for memory impairment and decreased attention. Sometimes there are periodically occurring.

An even more severe complication of atherosclerosis is acute cerebrovascular accident. It occurs when the plaque completely blocks the lumen of the vessel. A part of the brain dies due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients. Unfortunately, a stroke often affects large areas of the brain, resulting in paralysis, memory loss, and other serious impairments. Again, it happens suddenly, so atherosclerotic lesions of the brain should be prevented.

To do this, it is necessary to periodically take in order to determine the level of cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoproteins of various densities. In the case of an increase in cholesterol, the doctor prescribes appropriate drugs that will help bring it back to normal, and a diet with a minimum content of animal fats.

Memory and hormones

Often memory fails people with endocrine disorders. It has long been proven that the sex hormones of men and women (testosterone, estrogen) affect the functioning of the brain, so when their production decreases, pathological forgetfulness can be observed.

A decrease in the ability to remember information is noted by people with. With a lack of thyroid hormones in the body, all processes slow down, including the performance of the brain and memory deteriorates. In addition, hypothyroidism has a number of other signs:

• drowsiness, fatigue,
• constipation,
• , chilliness,
• an increase in body weight against the background of the previous appetite,
• dry skin,
• dull, brittle hair and nails
• limb numbness.

Finally, another endocrine pathology in which memory suffers is. This disease is characterized by damage to vessels of large and small caliber, so the blood supply to the brain worsens, the same encephalopathy begins to develop. In addition, carbohydrate metabolism is disturbed, that is, the brain cannot utilize glucose and get energy from it. In addition to forgetfulness, diabetic patients usually complain of weakness, intense thirst, frequent urination, pustular skin rashes that are difficult to treat, women are concerned about recurrent thrush.

Other diseases affecting memory

Very deep memory disorders up to amnesia occur with craniocerebral injuries, encephalitis or meningitis.

A steady decline in memory is characterized by Alzheimer's disease. It is not yet possible to cure it, but it is possible to somewhat slow down its development. If no measures are taken, then a person will very quickly lose the ability to navigate in space and his own personality, he will not even be able to serve himself. It is the decrease in attention and memory that is the earliest symptoms of the onset of Alzheimer's disease. People aged 70-80 should be especially attentive to such signs, since this disease makes its debut most often in this age category. In addition to this, for initial stage Alzheimer's disease is characterized by apathy.

Memory began to fail: what to do?

To begin with, try to neutralize the simplest causes of memory impairment. Start eating regularly and properly, normalize your daily routine, get enough sleep, be in the fresh air, do not forget about morning exercises. You can drink a course of multivitamins.

Our doctors also advise you to train your memory. This is easiest done by memorizing verses or simple text. In fact, people often complain about their memory in vain, without even trying to develop it. Memorizing information is a skill that requires practice.

If you ask yourself the question, what will be considered the norm for memory deterioration and loss, then you will never answer it, because for each person there is a threshold. By the way, there is no limit to memory. There is such a thing as super memory, when a person is able to remember even the smallest details of what they saw or heard, everything they had ever dealt with.

In serious publications and official reference books, memory is called, first of all, not only a physiological phenomenon, but also a cultural one, the ability to store and accumulate life experience. It is divided into two categories: short-term and long-term, and their ratio varies significantly for each person. For example, if you are the owner of a long-term memory, then, most likely, remembering the material will not be easy for you, however, after years you will easily reproduce it. If the opposite is true, then you will remember everything you need, literally instantly, but after a week you won’t even remember what you once knew.

Causes of memory impairment.

To make them easier to understand, the causes of memory impairment were divided into several components:

1. Those associated with brain damage, such as traumatic brain injury, its oncological diseases And ;
2. Associated with the deterioration of the performance of other equally important organs;
3. Other adverse factors, such as sleep disturbance, constant stress, a sudden transition to a different lifestyle, increased stress on the brain, especially on memory.
4. Chronic abuse of alcohol, tobacco smoking, sedative drugs and hard drugs.
5. Changes associated with age.

Treatment of memory impairment in adults.

A person lives and does not even think about memory until he encounters a deterioration in memory, for example, forgetfulness and poor perception of information, a decrease in the volume of perception. Any minor process can put a bullet in your memory.

There are a lot of types of our memory: there are visual, motor, auditory and others. Someone remembers well if he hears the material, and someone if he sees it. It is easier for someone to write and remember, and for someone to imagine. This is how our memory is different.

Our brain is divided into zones, each of which is responsible for some function. For example, for hearing and speech - temporal regions, for vision and spatial perception - occipito-parietal, for movements of the hands and speech apparatus - lower parietal. There is such a disease - astereognosia, which occurs when the lower parietal region is damaged. With its development, a person ceases to feel objects.

It is now scientifically established that hormones play an important role in the processes of our thinking and memory. Estrogen, testosterone and other components improve learning, assimilation of new material, memory development, while oxytocin acts the other way around.

Diseases leading to memory impairment.

Memory problems arise on the basis of various diseases. For example, most often the culprits are traumatic brain injuries, because of which there are constantly complaints of memory impairment, and this depends on the severity of the injury. Also, with craniocerebral injuries, various kinds occur: retrograde and anterograde. At the same time, the victim does not remember how he received this injury, nor what happened before. It happens that all this is accompanied by hallucinations and confabulations, that is, false memories that have settled in the human brain and were invented by him. That is, for example, when asked what he did the day before yesterday, the patient will say that he was at the opera, walked the dog, but in fact he was in the hospital all this time, because he was very sick. Hallucinations are images of something that does not exist.

One of the most common causes of impaired memory functionality is impaired blood circulation in the brain. With vessels, there is a decrease in blood flow to all parts of the brain, which is the main provocateur of the development of acute cerebrovascular accident. Any of the species develops in the areas of the brain, and therefore the blood flow to it completely stops, which greatly disrupts their functioning.

Similar symptoms of memory impairment also appear with one of the complications of which is vascular damage, their thickening and closure. All these factors further lead to damage not only to the brain, but also to other important organs.

Such well-known diseases as inflammation of the meninges- and inflammation of the substance of the brain - are reflected in the entire work of this organ. And they arise because of the defeat nervous system various viruses and bacteria. It is good that these diseases are curable with timely treatment to the hospital.

True, this cannot be said about diseases that are inherited, one of which is Alzheimer's disease. Most often, it occurs in elderly people aged 70-80 years and is characterized by a decrease in intelligence and memory loss up to a loss of orientation in the area. It begins imperceptibly, but as soon as you notice that memory is deteriorating and attention has begun to decline, consult a doctor, because it may be just her. A person does not remember recent events, begins to dream of the past, becomes a difficult and selfish person, apathy reigns over him. If he is not provided with the necessary treatment, then he will completely lose his bearings, will not recognize his family, and will not even be able to pronounce what date it is today. According to medical research, it has been established that Alzheimer's is mainly inherited. It is not curable, but if the patient is provided with the necessary treatment and care, then its process will proceed without consequences and complications, quietly and smoothly.

Memory can also deteriorate due to thyroid disease, that is, due to a lack of iodine in the body. A person will have a tendency to be overweight, apathy, depression, irritability and muscle swelling. To avoid this, you need to eat right, eat more iodine-containing foods, seafood, persimmon, seaweed, hard cheese and, of course, dairy products and nuts.

But forgetfulness should not always be equated with memory diseases, because sometimes a person consciously wants and tries to forget the difficult moments of his life, unpleasant and tragic events. This is a kind of human protection, and this should not be scared.

When a person ousts unpleasant facts from his memory - this is repression, when he believes that nothing happened - this is denial, and when his negative emotions it takes out on another object - this is a substitution, and all these are the main mechanisms for protecting the human mind. For example, after troubles at work, the husband comes home and takes out his irritability and anger on his beloved wife. To consider such cases as memory problems is possible only when it happens constantly, day after day. In addition, forgotten negative emotions that you did not express, but suppressed in yourself, will eventually turn into long-term depression.

Before we start treat memory impairment, you must first understand what disease caused this process. It is advisable to use drugs only as prescribed by a doctor, but no matter how independently.

Physiotherapeutic methods can be used, for example, electrophoresis with the introduction of a glutamic acid preparation through the nose.

For patients with memory impairment, psychological and pedagogical treatment is also successfully used. The teacher helps and teaches the patient to memorize again, while only healthy areas of the brain are involved in the process. For example, if the patient cannot remember the phrases spoken aloud, then if he mentally imagines this image, he will be able to remember at least the whole text. True, this is a very long and laborious process, work on oneself, which involves not only memorizing with the help of other possibilities, but also bringing this technique to automatism, when the patient will no longer think about how to do it.

Severe memory loss- this is not a disease at all, but a warning symptom that indicates that you have another, more serious disease that should be identified and treated. Moreover, it prevents a person from living a full life and separates him from society, worsens adaptive properties and functions.

If you have been diagnosed with memory impairment, then doctors will most likely prescribe you nootropic drugs that you will take. For example, a drug from a new series of drugs belonging to the group of nootropics - Noopept. It contains the most important amino acids for the human body - dipeptides, which, by acting on the neurons of the cerebral cortex, help restore memory and improve concentration. This drug acts on all stages of memory recovery and improvement: on the initial processing of information, its generalization and extraction. It also increases the resistance of the human body to such damaging factors as alcohol, drugs, tobacco, head injuries and various injuries.

On the video: Improving memory and attention. How to restore and improve memory?

Which doctor to contact in case of memory impairment.

If you notice in yourself or your loved ones memory loss symptoms similar to those described above, then you should contact a neuropsychologist or therapist who will conduct special examinations. If you do not want to wait for a doctor's verdict, then you can start acting on your own. It has long been known that the main cause of complaints is not a violation of memory, but the usual lack of due attention, when the information conveyed is remembered fleetingly and is not taken seriously. Such manifestations of inattention are usually characteristic of already elderly people, although, of course, they also occur in young people. To overcome this syndrome, you need to constantly work on yourself and train, focusing your attention on important details, writing down events, keeping a diary and learning how to do mental calculations.

This method is very popular and is described verbatim in the book of an American professor Lawrence Katz. According to him, these techniques activate the work of all parts of the brain, develop memory, attention and creativity.

Here are some of the memory-improving exercises described in the book:

1. Habitual things should be done with closed eyes, not with open ones;
2. If you are left handed, then do everything right hand, if you are right-handed, then vice versa, for example, if you wrote, brushed your teeth, stroked, drew with your left hand, then start doing it with your right hand, we assure you, you will immediately feel the result;
3. Learn Braille, that is, a reading system for the blind, or learn the basics of sign language - this will come in handy;
4. Type on the keyboard with all fingers of both hands;
5. Learn some kind of needlework, such as knitting or embroidery;
6. Speak in unknown languages ​​and learn them as much as possible;
7. Distinguish coins by touch and determine their value;
8. Read about things you've never been interested in.
9. Go to new places, institutions, theaters, parks, meet new people, communicate more.

That's basically all you need to know about the insidious memory impairment, treatment and symptoms of this disease. Follow these rules, know how to improve memory and be healthy!

Presentation on the topic “Disorders of memory and intelligence”

The ability to preserve and restore in the mind the previous experience, experiences and impressions is the most important function of the human brain. In fact, memory is the person himself. Memory disorders significantly impair the quality of life, and each of us would like to maintain this higher mental function for decades to come. But not everything depends on the desire of the person. Memory impairment can occur at any age. Disorders are either quantitative or qualitative. In the first case, separate fragments fall out, in the second, a confusion arises from real memories of different times and imaginary ones.

Types of memory problems

Human memory is a complex of complex mechanisms of the psyche, which, despite the impressive amount of research, remains a mystery to scientists. Until now, they have not been able to identify specific areas of the brain responsible for memory. It is traditionally believed that memory is an integral part of a single mental apparatus, and not a separate recording machine.

Memory provides fixation, storage and recreation of various facts, knowledge and skills.

The degree of memorization of a single person is determined by a combination of factors, such as motivation (stimulus), emotional component, concentration of attention, individual properties of the psyche. Even a slight violation of the ability to memorize is associated with tangible discomfort.

In our brain, there is no specialized area responsible solely for the function of memory.

The main types of memory impairment are listed below:

1. Amnesia. Memory lapses regarding recent important events or fragmented memories. The memory loss in this case is often temporary. Restoration of memories takes place in chronological order. The events preceding amnesia are most often lost in memory forever. Kinds:
   • dissociative amnesia - the loss of memories of emotionally traumatic events, refers to the varieties of natural properties of memory that displace painful memories into the unconscious; memories can be restored through work with a psychoanalyst or through hypnosis;
   • retrograde amnesia - loss of memory fragments for events that occurred immediately before the skull injury;
   • anterograde amnesia - loss of memories following trauma or stress;
   • fixation amnesia - the inability to remember and reproduce current events that coincided with the trauma.
2. Hypomnesia. Congenital or acquired progressive memory impairment. Decreased ability to memorize and reproduce digital, terminological data, names, names. In the elderly, it is characterized by a gradual loss of memories from the present to the past.
3. Hypermnesia. Pathologically hypertrophied ability to memorize, often related to certain types or forms of memory (remembering unnecessary details, information that does not carry a semantic load, etc.).
4. Paramnesia. Qualitative distortion of memory, which is characterized by false or confused memories of different times, as well as real and fictional events. Types of paramnesia:
   • confabulation - false memories or combinations of real events with fictional ones, when the patient talks about previously supposedly committed actions, achievements, non-existent wealth or criminal acts;
   • pseudo-reminiscence - a confusion of memories when the patient replaces a forgotten recent event with facts that took place in the distant past;
   • cryptomnesia - substitution of one's own memories with information obtained from books or other information sources, attributing to oneself other people's ideas of creativity (involuntary plagiarism);
   • echomnesia - the perception of what is happening as previously experienced in reality or in a dream, as a continuation of these events;
   • palimpsest - loss of memory of fragments of what happened during intoxication.

Causes of memory disorders

There are completely different reasons for memory impairment. The most common include: chronic fatigue syndrome, mental exhaustion, head injuries, age-related changes, senile dementia, alcohol addiction, toxic poisoning of the body, deficiency of micro and macro elements. Specific reasons are more typical for certain age categories.

In children

Memory disorders in children can be caused by congenital or acquired conditions. The former include delay or incomplete mental development, to the second - problems with remembering information, amnesia as a result of injury, mental illness, coma.

Fragmentary memory impairment in childhood most often due to a combination of a number of factors, including an unhealthy psychological atmosphere in the family or preschool / school institution, chronic fatigue (sometimes due to frequent respiratory infections), insufficient intake of vitamins and macronutrients.

At a young and middle age

In adulthood, there are also enough reasons for a memory disorder. Starting with chronic stress at work and in the family, ending with serious neurological diseases (idiopathic parkinsonism syndrome) and brain damage (encephalitis). Associated with a partial loss of memory function and mental illness, including neuroses, depressive disorders, schizophrenia.

A significant impact on the function of memory has damage to the vessels of the brain and insufficiency of its blood circulation. These include diseases of the endocrine system (diabetes, thyroid dysfunction), blood vessels, chronically elevated blood pressure.

In the elderly

In old age, the main part of memory disorders is associated with impaired cerebral circulation as a result of age-related wear of the vascular system. metabolic process in nerve cells also tolerates negative changes. One of the most common causes of severe memory problems in older patients is Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that progressively affects various aspects of memory

The natural aging process is accompanied by a decrease in memory sharpness, but this happens quite smoothly. First of all, it becomes increasingly difficult for an elderly person to remember recent events. At the same time, the memory of the distant past can remain very clear, the old man remembers what happened long ago in detail. Increased forgetfulness often provokes fear and self-doubt in older people, as well as anxiety and even depression.

Be that as it may, at least half of people over 65 complain of a deterioration in memorability. However, older people rarely experience tangible discomfort due to the slow progress of the aging process. With a sharp and rapid deterioration of memory, there is a high chance of developing senile dementia if saving measures are not taken in time.

Symptoms of memory loss

Symptoms that raise the suspicion of memory problems and may be regarded as manifestations of deterioration in cognitive (cognitive) function include:

• decreased concentration of attention (inability to focus and fix attention on a topic or object for a more or less long time);
• decreased ability to switch attention (excessive fixation on one topic and repeated return to it after a short distraction);
• state of inhibition;
• systematic violations of the daily routine;
• signs of apathy or depression (loss of appetite, suicidal ideation).

Diagnosis for memory problems

Diagnosis of memory disorders is carried out by a neuropathologist. There are various diagnostic techniques for detecting memory disorders. It is important to understand that they are all standardized, and the memory properties of each individual have their own characteristics. The concept of a norm is rather conditional. But it is more than realistic to identify obvious violations using the methods below.

First, the doctor invites the patient to view a set of several dozen cards with images of various objects. The cards are reviewed rather fluently, after which the subject must name the maximum number of items that he was able to remember, in a chaotic manner. After evaluating the percentage of correct answers, the doctor draws a conclusion about the state of the patient's memory. If the patient managed to remember about 2/3 of all images (for example, 20 out of 30), then this result is normal and the person has no problems with memory.

Diagnosis of figurative (visual) memory is carried out using cards with images

Then the patient can be offered a second set of cards, with which you will need to do the same. Sharp differences in the results will reveal a reduced ability to concentrate and remember (mnestic function).

In a similar way, not only visual, but also auditory memory is checked, only the pictures are not shown, but the objects depicted on them are voiced aloud. If the patient was able to reproduce about 60-70% of the information, this indicates an excellent result.

Another memory test method is to list unrelated words in a certain sequence (2–4 repetitions). The patient is asked to voice the remembered words immediately after the test and 30 minutes later. The correct answers are fixed, according to which it is possible to draw conclusions about the degree of attention of the subject. Similarly, artificial words devoid of semantic load can be used. If the patient managed to remember more than half of the 10-20 words, then his memory function is normal.

If serious organic disorders associated with the vessels of the brain are suspected, diagnostic methods of neuroimaging are used: CT or MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging, as the method of choice for suspected Alzheimer's disease, reveals characteristics degenerative process in the brain:

• decrease in the amount of gray matter;
• an increase in the cavity of the ventricles of the brain;
• detection of inclusions (plaques) on the walls of arteries.

Principles of correction and treatment depending on the causes

Methods of treatment and correction of cognitive disorders directly depend on the established diagnosis. Violation of cerebral circulation - acute and chronic - occurs as a result of diseases of the heart and vascular system. Therefore, therapy in this case is aimed at combating such pathologies as heart disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

In the conditions of the development of atherosclerosis, which affects the volume of blood flow through the vessels, it is necessary to prescribe drugs that prevent the formation of blood clots (Clopidogrel, Acetylsalicylic acid).

If it is established that a person has significantly exceeded indicators that are not corrected with the help of a diet, then it is necessary to take lipid-lowering drugs or fats (Atorvastatin, Simvastatin).

It is important to eliminate factors that reduce the blood supply to the brain, such as smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, overweight, and diabetes.

The state of insufficient blood supply to the brain is dangerous due to cell death as a result of narrowing or blockage of small vessels. In this case, the appointment of neuroprotective therapy is appropriate. Such treatment is provided by a special group of drugs called nootropics. These medicines increase the resistance of the brain to a variety of harmful effects, such as excessive load or oxygen starvation. They are represented by neuroprotectors and direct-acting nootropics. The first include the following groups of drugs:

Direct acting nootropics include:

Gingko biloba extract is considered a natural herbal remedy with a nootropic effect. Preparations based on this plant have a pronounced effect that normalizes the blood circulation of the brain. Tinctures of ginseng and magnolia vine are used for a general increase in vascular tone with a tendency to low blood pressure.

Combinations of nootropics with antidepressants or sedatives are prescribed for concomitant dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. In this case, an examination of the endocrine function is indicated in order to identify possible disorders in the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Nootropics are used in the treatment of memory disorders of various origins, but always in combination with the treatment of the underlying disease.

How to train memory

The human brain, like the muscles of our body, needs constant training to maintain cognitive functions at the proper level. It is enough for a healthy person to devote only 5 minutes a day to memory development exercises.

One of the most accessible and effective methods training memory and thinking - solving arithmetic problems. You can start with simple examples:

• 487–93 =?
• 235:5 =?
• 27*6 =?

It is necessary to solve examples and problems in the mind, without using auxiliary electronic devices. Mathematical calculations accelerate the functions of thinking and analysis. Thinking about arithmetic problems, calculating discount percentages during the sales season, knocking out the amount of the check without a calculator, we thereby provide a good workout for our brain.

Special techniques make it easy to memorize words, numbers, pictograms, train the imagination

Great exercise for memory is the memorization of random numbers, phone numbers, a set of objects, words that are not related in meaning. To facilitate the task, you can build various associative series that help logically group certain words and symbols. For example, the number 0 (zero) visually resembles an egg, the number 1 is a candle, 4 is a sailboat, and 8 is a snowman. IN graphic image such words or numbers can be used in different colors. Remembering not only the symbol, but also its color is a more difficult task, not for beginners.

Lifestyle Correction

The state of memory, especially with age, is largely determined by genetic data, including a tendency to certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's dementia. But no less important role is played by the way of eating and lifestyle. Below are some scientific sound advice that allow you to maintain your cognitive abilities at any age:

1. Limit your intake of sweets. A large amount of sugar in the diet can cause various health problems, including the deterioration of the cognitive ability of the brain. In people who regularly abuse sugary drinks and confectionery, the volume of the brain decreases, in particular, the area responsible for short-term memory. By reducing the amount of harmful carbohydrates, you can improve not only the state of memory, but also overall health.
2. Take fish oil supplements. Polyunsaturated fatty acid(eicosapentaenoic acid omega-3 and docosahexaenoic acid), which are rich in fish oil, protect the heart from diseases caused by excessive everyday stress and anxiety; reduce the inflammatory response in the body. According to clinical studies, long-term - at least a year - taking concentrated fish oil supplements significantly improves the state of working and episodic memory in people over 65 years of age with mild cognitive impairment.
   Fish oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids that protect our heart, blood vessels and brain
3. Get into the practice of meditation. Meditation techniques are great for relieving stress and relaxing. According to some reports, the practice of meditation techniques increases the volume of gray matter containing neurons. Age-related changes lead to a decrease in gray matter in the brain, which negatively affects the functions of cognition and memory. Mental exercise sharpens short-term memory and improves visuospatial working memory at any age.
   Regular practice of meditation increases gray matter volume in the brain at any age
4. Normalize body weight. As many clinical studies show, obesity significantly increases the risk of cognitive decline. Curiously, obesity can actually cause genetic changes associated with memory function. Being overweight also invariably leads to insulin resistance and an increase in levels, which causes type 2 diabetes. Obesity is one of the significant risk factors for the development of Alzheimer's dementia.
5. Practice mindfulness and awareness. Self-awareness is mental condition focusing on the current moment, attentive attitude to one's own feelings from the surrounding space. You can practice mindfulness as part of meditation or separately, as a kind of mental habit, skill. Mindfulness effectively reduces stress and improves concentration.
6. Don't ignore physical activity. For healthy brain function, it is important to engage not only in mental practices, but also regularly dedicate time to sports. So, even simple daily exercises for 15–20 minutes on a stationary exercise bike significantly improve the cognitive capabilities of the brain in people from 18 to 95 years old, according to research. Training increases the production of neuroprotective proteins and improves neuronal growth and development, which reduces the risk of dementia later in life.

Prevention

Following the rules of a healthy lifestyle is the best way to avoid memory deterioration ahead of time. An important role is played by timely therapy of systemic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension. It is necessary to be attentive to the daily routine, alternating work with rest, ensuring night sleep for at least 8 hours, so that organs and systems have time to recover.

You should not abuse low-calorie diets. The brain for its activity consumes at least 1/5 of the energy intake from meals. Another thing is that it is important to build a balanced diet, where the main products will be vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish. The hydration of the body is of great importance. The daily rate of fluid intake is about 2-2.5 liters for a person of average build. As the main drink, it is better to prefer drinking or mineral water.

In old age, it is important to continue to maintain social activity, be interested in the news, read books and newspapers, communicate with loved ones - this will significantly increase the chances of maintaining normal cognitive function until old age.

Causes of memory impairment: video

There are many simple, fun and effective ways maintain the cognitive functions of the brain in excellent condition. But any technique should be based on a scientific approach. Combining the rules of a healthy lifestyle, physical activity and regular training of mental functions, you can be sure that your memory will not let you down until old age.