Why We Forget and How To Remember Better
Andrew E. Budson, Elizabeth A. Kensinger, Daniel L. Schacter
Abstract
Abstract Part 1 begins by explaining how memory is not actually a single ability but rather a collection of different conscious and nonconscious abilities. The authors explaining how each one of these systems works in your daily life. Part 2 focuses on the heart of memory: how we remember the events that make up our lives. The authors explain how we create, store, and retrieve memories of these events, and they review the impact of emotion on memory. They discuss whether you can actually control what you remember and what you forget and explain some of the circumstances in which memories can become distorted or just plain false. Part 3 begins with how different neurologic and medical disorders can disrupt memory. The authors also review how psychiatric and psychological problems, including medication side effects, can affect memory. Part 4 covers the changes to your lifestyle that can strengthen—or weaken—your memory. The authors provide the latest evidence regarding exercise, nutrition, alcohol, cannabis, drugs, sleep, social activities, music, mindfulness, as well as brain-training and other activities. Part 5 discusses different memory aids and strategies to help you remember everything from your shopping list to that presentation you need to memorize for work or the name of your colleague you haven’t seen in 10 years.