You create memories as a result of your brain functioning correctly. When you pay attention to information, your brain will create memories and place them in storage for later retrieval and use. You can increase your ability to remember things through simple steps, but if you experience chronic and serious memory problems, it may be a result of a condition that should be addressed with your doctor.
Basics
According to HelpGuide.org, memory is a process of storage by the brain and the memories are not stored in one central area. Memories are organized by long or short term and the type of information needed. The brain stores memories in different areas of your brain based on the nature of the information, reports HelpGuide.org.
Memory Formation
There are stages that memories go through in order to be formed. According to HelpGuide.org, when you are exposed to new information, it enters your brain along the pathways between nerve cells and if you do not focus on the information, it will not be retained in storage. If you pay attention to the information, your brain will begin to encode it and the hippocampus, a structure within your brain, will signal to store the information in long-term memory. Your brain more easily creates long-term memories if the information is related to something you are already familiar with or you have an emotional response to it, reports HelpGuide.org. As you retrieve memories, your brain will learn things that you need more often and the information will quickly be sent along the nerve cells, according to HelpGuide.org.
Aging Brain
Your aging brain can affect your ability to retain memories. According to HelpGuide.org, brain changes that affect your memories include your hippocampus naturally deteriorating with age, affecting your ability to retain memories; a decrease in your neuron count, which contributes to your brain's decrease in activity; and a decrease in blood flow to your brain, which also influences a decrease in your brain activity.
Creating Memories
There are ways to improve your chances of creating and retaining memories for later retrieval. The Mayo Clinic offers several tips, including staying mentally active through brain puzzles and reading, socializing, focusing on what is being said, getting organized, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and seeing your doctor about chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or depression.
Considerations
Memory loss can be caused by any number of factors, but there are significant forms of memory loss that result from conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. With Alzheimer's disease, you will experience an increase in memory problems over time, as your healthy brain tissue decreases. Early signs of Alzheimer's include misplacing familiar items, being unable to complete familiar tasks and getting lost in familiar areas, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other many forms of dementia result from different parts of the brain being damaged or functioning improperly. If you are concerned about memory problems, discuss the issue with your doctor.
