Memory Loss and Forgetfulness: Is There a Difference?

Many people often complain of memory loss and forgetfulness. Where did I put my keys? What time is my interview? Did I turn off the curling iron? What was his name? These are all common things that people forget on a daily basis, but when does being forgetful really mean something is wrong with you?

Everyone forgets things that they should. It is a part of life, especially for people who are easily distracted or stressed. Even though they are formed in an instant, storing a memory is a process. If one step gets interrupted, the memory will not be made and is quickly replaced by other aspects of your busy day.

However, memory loss and forgetfulness are not the same thing. By definition, forgetfulness is just that: you have temporarily forgotten something you once knew, but the memory is still present in your mind, just out of your present cognitive reach. Memory loss, however, is the deterioration of memories. Once they are lost, they can never be retrieved. While these are two very different things, they are often used interchangeably.

Usually, there is no problem in not making the distinction, and there are many memory improvement tips and techniques you can use to make remembering things easier. It only becomes an issue when the long-term effects of memory loss vs. the temporary effects of forgetfulness become apparent. Forgetting important events like birthdays and anniversaries, the names of people you know well, important addresses and phone numbers, and the like can all interfere with everyday life. At this point, especially in the age related memory loss, it may be a good idea to consult with a doctor to ensure there is no brain damage and to rule out any serious conditions such as dementia, mental illness, depression, and Alzheimer's disease before writing memory loss off as simply forgetfulness.