He remembered and forgot the reasons for the poor memory. What should I do if my memory worsens and my attention spans? Use folk remedies

Friends, good afternoon! Today we will talk about poor memory and what to do to improve it. What vitamins from distraction and carelessness can be taken. The work of the brain is the basis of a full life, the ability to perceive the surrounding reality and to adequately respond to what is happening around.

Forgetfulness and distraction are not scary of course, but always unpleasant.   And it also happens to me that you go on some business, but in the end you forget something at home. Or even funnier. You plan to take a walk for herbs, and you forget the knife at home.

And somehow sad, and sometimes funny from such incidents. And you write down on a piece of paper, but all to no avail. Forgetfulness is not a serious phenomenon, it is not even a disease. Rather sign of untrained brain.

There is of course senile forgetfulnessdue to age-related changes in the head. There are even serious memory lapses when a person forgets what his or his family’s name is. This most often occurs after strokes. We will not consider such cases today.

Memory impairment is directly related to brain training.. Although our brain is not a muscle, it requires increased attention to itself. It lends itself to training and is able to memorize and store a truly countless amount of information. How to train him? What substances improve memory?

Water for the brain

Dehydration of the brain is one of the causes of its disorders. We don’t notice how we lose fluid. And it is extremely important for the full functioning of this body. Fatigue and memory loss are directly related to the supply of water to the brain. Drink at least seven glasses of water a day in pure form, not in teas or in the form of any mixed liquids.

B vitamins

B vitamins, such as B6 and B12. Thiamine and Niacin . These substances have a beneficial effect on the restoration and functioning of brain tissue.

If you have poor memory and are distracted, then eat bananas. These fruits have many B6 vitamins, as well as other beneficial substances. And again: have you ever seen a monkey with memory failures?

Also a good supplier of vitamins of this group can be called whole grains. And especially seedlings of wheat and rye.

Eliminate saturated fats from your diet.

All saturated fats clog the arterial lumen, which means that the brain and heart receive significantly less blood, and, accordingly, oxygen. We get saturated fats from butter, and also, which is more dangerous - from trans fats.

We get trans fats in ready-made pastries - cookies from the store and all kinds of confectionery. And also exclude margarine - this is generally slow self-poisoning.

The best meat is fish

Eat fish products two or three times a week. Tuna, salmon, herring and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These substances in a favorable way, indirectly, through the purification of blood vessels, wag on the brain activity.

Take multivitamins

They must be present vitamin B12, as well as folic acid. It is these two components that are more responsible for memory. Even a very small deficiency of these vitamins leads to impaired attention and distraction.

Stir your gyrus

The more we train the brain, the better it works, even despite the lack of some substances. This is a paradox, but this is exactly what happens. That is, he is somehow mobilized and still works. Better, of course, when he is also given proper recharge.

Solve crosswords, various puzzles and puzzles . Read developmental literature. Learn foreign languages. People with a high level of intelligence are much less likely to suffer from memory problems.

Ginseng preparations

Very well affect the mental activity of the brain. You can buy root tincture in pharmacies. Read the instructions and use this drug to improve memory.


I have a friend who can send real Chinese ginseng infusion. If there is interest, then write to my mail [email protected]


Asian Thistle or Gotu-Cola Grass

It has long been used in Asia to improve intelligence abilities, if memory has become worse, then people take Gotu Kola drugs or simply add foliage to salads. This plant is sold there at all vegetable markets, as a seasoning.

Also available in pharmacies as extract and powder. People began to use this drug after they watched elephants. They ate grass and became noticeably quicker.

Stimulating power of coffee

Oddly enough, coffee can have a positive effect. You only need to drink grain coffee, and not chemical poison in the form of a powder. Pitch and cook yourself at home.

I drink every morning - for two glasses of water I make a teaspoon of coffee without a slide. Pour the ground powder with cold water and put on a small gas. I bring to a boil and immediately remove. I insist another 5 minutes and drink a bit of honey with honey.

Perfectly improves performance and streamlines thoughts. Elderly is especially good for the brain. For example, Athos elders, until old age, retain a clear mind and strong memory. They drink up to 5 cups of coffee per day. We don’t need so much of course. Enough for a glass in the morning and closer to dinner.

Ginkgo biloba preparations

Take 120 mg of ginkgo biloba preparations daily. This plant has a good effect on the blood supply to the brain and improves its absorption of oxygen. Increased performance and memory.


Concentration of attention

There are special practices aimed at concentration. For example, contemplation of a candle, preferably a church, as the power of faith is especially helpful. I profess Orthodoxy, so the emphasis is on Christian values.

So, light a candle or a lamp, and repeating Our Father, look continuously and the flame. To begin with, the practice should last 5 minutes, and then you can gradually bring it to half an hour. Your attention and concentration will improve significantly.

The ability to preserve and restore to previous consciousnesses, experiences and impressions is the most important function of the human brain. In fact, memory is man 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 man. Impaired memory can occur at any age. Disorders are quantitative or qualitative. In the first case, individual fragments fall out, in the second, confusion arises from real memories of different times and imaginary.

Types of Memory Problems

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

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

The degree of memorization of an individual 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 memory function

The main types of memory impairment are listed below:

  1. Amnesia. Memory lapses regarding recent important events or fragmentary memories. Memory loss in this case is often temporary. The restoration of memories occurs in chronological order. Events preceding amnesia are most often lost by memory forever. Kinds:
    • dissociative amnesia - loss of memories of emotionally traumatic events, refers to varieties of natural memory properties that displace painful memories into the realm of the unconscious; memories can be recovered through work with a psychoanalyst or through hypnosis;
    • retrograde amnesia - the loss of fragments of memory for events that occurred immediately before a skull injury;
    • anterograde amnesia - loss of memories following an injury or stress;
    • fixative amnesia - the inability to remember and reproduce current events that coincided with an injury.
  2. Hypomnesia. Congenital or acquired progressive memory impairment. Decreased ability to memorize and reproduce digital, terminological data, names, names. In older people, it is characterized by a gradual loss of memories from the present to the past.
  3. Hypermnesia. Pathologically hypertrophied ability to remember, often related to certain types or forms of memory (memorizing unnecessary details, information that does not carry a semantic load, etc.).
  4. Paramnesia A 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 fictitious ones, when the patient tells of previously committed acts, achievements, non-existent wealth or criminal acts;
    • pseudo-reminiscence is a confusion of memories when a patient replaces a forgotten recent event with facts that took place in the distant past;
    • cryptomnesia - replacing one’s own memories with information obtained from books or other information sources, ascribing 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 alcohol 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 causes are more characteristic for certain age categories.

In children

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

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

In young and middle age

In adulthood, reasons for a memory disorder are also sufficient. Starting with chronic stress at work and in the family, ending with serious neurological diseases (idiopathic Parkinson's syndrome) and brain damage (encephalitis). Mental illnesses, including neurosis, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, are associated with a partial loss of memory function.

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

In the elderly

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


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

The natural aging process is accompanied by a decrease in the severity of memory, 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 be kept very clear, the old man remembers what happened a long time in detail. Frequent forgetfulness often provokes fear and self-doubt in people in years, as well as anxiety and even depressive states.

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

Symptoms of memory impairment

Symptoms that cause suspicion of memory problems and may be regarded as manifestations of impaired cognitive (cognitive) function include:

  • decreased attention span (inability to concentrate 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 mood).

Diagnostics for memory problems

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

First, the doctor offers the patient to view a set of several dozen cards with images of different objects. Viewing cards is carried out quite fluently, after which the subject must name the maximum number of objects that he could remember in a chaotic manner. Having estimated the percentage of correct answers, the doctor concludes the patient’s memory status. If the patient managed to remember about 2/3 of all images (for example, 20 out of 30), then this result is normal and there are no problems with the person’s memory.


Diagnostics of figurative (visual) memory is carried out using image cards

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 this way, not only visual, but also auditory memory is checked, only the pictures do not show, 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 method of checking memory is to list unrelated words in a specific sequence (2–4 repetitions). The patient is asked to voice memorized words immediately after the test and after 30 minutes. The correct answers are recorded, according to which it is possible to draw conclusions about the degree of attention of the subject. Similarly, artificial words without meaning can be used. If the patient managed to memorize more than half of 10–20 words, then his memory function corresponds to the norm.

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

  • reduction 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 reasons

The methods of treatment and correction of cognitive disorders directly depend on the diagnosis.Disruption 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 pathologies such as heart disease, hypertension, cerebral arteriosclerosis.

In 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 by diet, then it is necessary to take drugs that reduce the level of lipids 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.

A condition of insufficient blood supply to the brain is dangerous for 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 drugs increase the resistance of the brain to various harmful effects, such as overload or oxygen starvation. They are represented by neuroprotectors and direct-acting nootropics. The first include such groups of drugs:


Direct-acting nootropic drugs include:


A natural herbal remedy with a nootropic effect is gingko biloba extract. Preparations based on this plant have a pronounced effect that normalizes the blood circulation of the brain. Tinctures of ginseng and Schisandra chinensis are used to increase the overall vascular tone with a tendency to lower blood pressure.

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

Nootropic drugs are used in the treatment of memory disorders of various origins, but necessarily in combination with the therapy 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 of training memory and thinking is solving arithmetic problems. You can start with simple examples:

  • 487–93 =?
  • 235:5 =?
  • 27*6 =?

Solving examples and tasks is necessary in the mind, without using auxiliary electronic devices. Mathematical calculations speed up the functions of thinking and analysis. Thinking about arithmetic problems, calculating the percentage of discounts in the sales season, knocking out the amount of the check without a calculator, we thereby provide good training for our brain.


  Special techniques make it easy to remember words, numbers, pictograms, train your imagination

An excellent exercise for memory is the memorization of random numbers, phone numbers, a collection of objects, words that are not interconnected in meaning. To facilitate the task, you can build various associative rows that help to logically group these or those words, symbols. For example, the number 0 (zero) visually resembles an egg, the number 1 - a candle, 4 - a sailboat, and 8 - a snowman. Different colors can be used in the graphic representation of such words or numbers. Remembering not only a 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 the tendency to certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's type of dementia. But an equally important role is played by the way of eating and the way of life. The following are some evidence-based tips to help you maintain your cognitive abilities at any age:

  1. Limit sweets. A large amount of sugar in the diet can cause various health problems, including a deterioration in the cognitive ability of the brain. In people who regularly abuse sugary drinks and confectionery, the brain volume decreases, in particular, the area responsible for short-term memory. By reducing the amount of harmful carbohydrates, it is possible to improve not only the state of memory, but also general health.
  2. Take fish oil based dietary supplements. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid omega-3 and docosahexaenoic acid), which are rich in fish oil, protect the heart from diseases caused by excessive daily stress and anxiety; reduce the inflammatory response in the body. According to clinical studies, a long - at least a year - intake of concentrated fish oil supplements significantly improves the state of operative and episodic memory in people after 65 years with moderate cognitive impairment.
      Fish oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids that protect our heart, blood vessels, and brain.
  3. Practice meditation. Meditation techniques perfectly relieve tension and relax. 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 exercises exacerbate short-term memory and improve the performance of visual-spatial working memory at any age.
    Regular practice of meditation increases the amount of gray matter in the brain at any age.
  4. Normalize body weight. As many clinical studies have shown, obesity significantly increases the risk of cognitive decline. It is curious that 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 a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's type of dementia.
  5. Train mindfulness and awareness. Self-awareness is a mental state of focusing on the current moment, an attentive attitude to one’s own sensations from the surrounding space. Awareness can be practiced in the framework of meditation or separately, as a kind of mental habit, skill. Awareness effectively reduces stress and helps increase concentration.
  6. Do not ignore physical activity. For healthy brain function, it is important to engage not only in mental practices, but also regularly devote time to sports. So, even simple daily exercises of 15-20 minutes on a stationary stationary bike significantly improve the cognitive capabilities of the brain in people aged 18 to 95 years, according to studies. Training increases the production of neuroprotective proteins and improves the growth and development of neurons, which reduces the risk of dementia at a later age.

Prevention

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

Low-calorie diets should not be abused. The brain for its activity consumes at least 1/5 of the energy revenues from meals. Another thing is that it is important to build a balanced diet, where the main products are vegetables, whole grains, fatty varieties of fish. Of great importance is the hydration of the body. The daily 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 news, read books and newspapers, communicate with loved ones - this will significantly increase the chances of maintaining cognitive function in the norm until old age.

Causes of memory impairment: video

There are many simple, fun, and effective ways to keep your brain cognitive functions in top 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 memory will not let you down to a very old age.

The ability to preserve and restore to previous consciousnesses, experiences and impressions is the most important function of the human brain. In fact, memory is man 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 man. Impaired memory can occur at any age. Disorders are quantitative or qualitative. In the first case, individual fragments fall out, in the second, confusion arises from real memories of different times and imaginary.

Types of Memory Problems

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

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

The degree of memorization of an individual 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 memory function

The main types of memory impairment are listed below:

  1. Amnesia. Memory lapses regarding recent important events or fragmentary memories. Memory loss in this case is often temporary. The restoration of memories occurs in chronological order. Events preceding amnesia are most often lost by memory forever. Kinds:
    • dissociative amnesia - loss of memories of emotionally traumatic events, refers to varieties of natural memory properties that displace painful memories into the realm of the unconscious; memories can be recovered through work with a psychoanalyst or through hypnosis;
    • retrograde amnesia - the loss of fragments of memory for events that occurred immediately before a skull injury;
    • anterograde amnesia - loss of memories following an injury or stress;
    • fixative amnesia - the inability to remember and reproduce current events that coincided with an injury.
  2. Hypomnesia. Congenital or acquired progressive memory impairment. Decreased ability to memorize and reproduce digital, terminological data, names, names. In older people, it is characterized by a gradual loss of memories from the present to the past.
  3. Hypermnesia. Pathologically hypertrophied ability to remember, often related to certain types or forms of memory (memorizing unnecessary details, information that does not carry a semantic load, etc.).
  4. Paramnesia A 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 fictitious ones, when the patient tells of previously committed acts, achievements, non-existent wealth or criminal acts;
    • pseudo-reminiscence is a confusion of memories when a patient replaces a forgotten recent event with facts that took place in the distant past;
    • cryptomnesia - replacing one’s own memories with information obtained from books or other information sources, ascribing 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 alcohol 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 causes are more characteristic for certain age categories.

In children

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

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

In young and middle age

In adulthood, reasons for a memory disorder are also sufficient. Starting with chronic stress at work and in the family, ending with serious neurological diseases (idiopathic Parkinson's syndrome) and brain damage (encephalitis). Mental illnesses, including neurosis, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, are associated with a partial loss of memory function.

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

In the elderly

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


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

The natural aging process is accompanied by a decrease in the severity of memory, 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 be kept very clear, the old man remembers what happened a long time in detail. Frequent forgetfulness often provokes fear and self-doubt in people in years, as well as anxiety and even depressive states.

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

Symptoms of memory impairment

Symptoms that cause suspicion of memory problems and may be regarded as manifestations of impaired cognitive (cognitive) function include:

  • decreased attention span (inability to concentrate 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 mood).

Diagnostics for memory problems

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

First, the doctor offers the patient to view a set of several dozen cards with images of different objects. Viewing cards is carried out quite fluently, after which the subject must name the maximum number of objects that he could remember in a chaotic manner. Having estimated the percentage of correct answers, the doctor concludes the patient’s memory status. If the patient managed to remember about 2/3 of all images (for example, 20 out of 30), then this result is normal and there are no problems with the person’s memory.


Diagnostics of figurative (visual) memory is carried out using image cards

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 this way, not only visual, but also auditory memory is checked, only the pictures do not show, 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 method of checking memory is to list unrelated words in a specific sequence (2–4 repetitions). The patient is asked to voice memorized words immediately after the test and after 30 minutes. The correct answers are recorded, according to which it is possible to draw conclusions about the degree of attention of the subject. Similarly, artificial words without meaning can be used. If the patient managed to memorize more than half of 10–20 words, then his memory function corresponds to the norm.

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

  • reduction 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 reasons

The methods of treatment and correction of cognitive disorders directly depend on the diagnosis.Disruption 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 pathologies such as heart disease, hypertension, cerebral arteriosclerosis.

In 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 by diet, then it is necessary to take drugs that reduce the level of lipids 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.

A condition of insufficient blood supply to the brain is dangerous for 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 drugs increase the resistance of the brain to various harmful effects, such as overload or oxygen starvation. They are represented by neuroprotectors and direct-acting nootropics. The first include such groups of drugs:


Direct-acting nootropic drugs include:


A natural herbal remedy with a nootropic effect is gingko biloba extract. Preparations based on this plant have a pronounced effect that normalizes the blood circulation of the brain. Tinctures of ginseng and Schisandra chinensis are used to increase the overall vascular tone with a tendency to lower blood pressure.

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

Nootropic drugs are used in the treatment of memory disorders of various origins, but necessarily in combination with the therapy 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 of training memory and thinking is solving arithmetic problems. You can start with simple examples:

  • 487–93 =?
  • 235:5 =?
  • 27*6 =?

Solving examples and tasks is necessary in the mind, without using auxiliary electronic devices. Mathematical calculations speed up the functions of thinking and analysis. Thinking about arithmetic problems, calculating the percentage of discounts in the sales season, knocking out the amount of the check without a calculator, we thereby provide good training for our brain.


  Special techniques make it easy to remember words, numbers, pictograms, train your imagination

An excellent exercise for memory is the memorization of random numbers, phone numbers, a collection of objects, words that are not interconnected in meaning. To facilitate the task, you can build various associative rows that help to logically group these or those words, symbols. For example, the number 0 (zero) visually resembles an egg, the number 1 - a candle, 4 - a sailboat, and 8 - a snowman. Different colors can be used in the graphic representation of such words or numbers. Remembering not only a 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 the tendency to certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's type of dementia. But an equally important role is played by the way of eating and the way of life. The following are some evidence-based tips to help you maintain your cognitive abilities at any age:

  1. Limit sweets. A large amount of sugar in the diet can cause various health problems, including a deterioration in the cognitive ability of the brain. In people who regularly abuse sugary drinks and confectionery, the brain volume decreases, in particular, the area responsible for short-term memory. By reducing the amount of harmful carbohydrates, it is possible to improve not only the state of memory, but also general health.
  2. Take fish oil based dietary supplements. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid omega-3 and docosahexaenoic acid), which are rich in fish oil, protect the heart from diseases caused by excessive daily stress and anxiety; reduce the inflammatory response in the body. According to clinical studies, a long - at least a year - intake of concentrated fish oil supplements significantly improves the state of operative and episodic memory in people after 65 years with moderate cognitive impairment.
      Fish oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids that protect our heart, blood vessels, and brain.
  3. Practice meditation. Meditation techniques perfectly relieve tension and relax. 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 exercises exacerbate short-term memory and improve the performance of visual-spatial working memory at any age.
    Regular practice of meditation increases the amount of gray matter in the brain at any age.
  4. Normalize body weight. As many clinical studies have shown, obesity significantly increases the risk of cognitive decline. It is curious that 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 a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's type of dementia.
  5. Train mindfulness and awareness. Self-awareness is a mental state of focusing on the current moment, an attentive attitude to one’s own sensations from the surrounding space. Awareness can be practiced in the framework of meditation or separately, as a kind of mental habit, skill. Awareness effectively reduces stress and helps increase concentration.
  6. Do not ignore physical activity. For healthy brain function, it is important to engage not only in mental practices, but also regularly devote time to sports. So, even simple daily exercises of 15-20 minutes on a stationary stationary bike significantly improve the cognitive capabilities of the brain in people aged 18 to 95 years, according to studies. Training increases the production of neuroprotective proteins and improves the growth and development of neurons, which reduces the risk of dementia at a later age.

Prevention

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

Low-calorie diets should not be abused. The brain for its activity consumes at least 1/5 of the energy revenues from meals. Another thing is that it is important to build a balanced diet, where the main products are vegetables, whole grains, fatty varieties of fish. Of great importance is the hydration of the body. The daily 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 news, read books and newspapers, communicate with loved ones - this will significantly increase the chances of maintaining cognitive function in the norm until old age.

Causes of memory impairment: video

There are many simple, fun, and effective ways to keep your brain cognitive functions in top 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 memory will not let you down to a very old age.

Absent-mindedness - a condition of a person, long or short-term in nature, which may indicate the development of certain diseases on the part of the nervous system or brain. However, one should not exclude the fact that distracted attention in a child or adult can be symptomatic and be due to a psychosomatic factor.

There are several forms of this state of man, each of which has its own etiological picture. Only the doctor can establish the exact causes of such a pathological process by conducting the necessary diagnostic procedures. Self-medication is not recommended.

Etiology

The cause of impaired concentration of attention, forgetfulness in children and adults can be both a specific disease and features of a person’s psychotype.

As for the pathological processes that can act as etiological factors, then this should include:

  • oncological processes in the brain;
  • violation of the blood supply to the brain, oxygen starvation;
  •   vascular type and (senile dementia);
  • strong (most often it);
  •   , high blood pressure;
  • lack of essential vitamins and minerals in the body;
  • autoimmune and systemic diseases that affect the brain and nervous system;
  • chronic

In addition to diseases, forgetfulness and distraction can also be caused by psychological disorders, namely:

  • clinical;
  • severe nervous shock,.

Also, increased distraction of attention can be due to severe fatigue, lack of sleep, frequent nervous overstrain.

Classification

The following types of dispersion are distinguished:

  • imaginary distraction - in this case, a violation of the psychological plan is meant, we are not talking about the development of the pathological process. With an imaginary absent-mindedness, a person concentrates on certain events, which makes everything else go by the wayside;
  • genuine distraction   - in most cases, the cause of genuine distraction is the development of a certain pathological process or severe neuropsychiatric disorder.

Imaginary absent-mindedness does not require specific treatment, and its symptoms are only symptomatic. However, if the symptom manifests itself often and quite long in time, you should seek the advice of a doctor. Especially when it comes to the child.

Symptomatology

Imaginary and genuine distraction have completely different symptoms, since in the first case this, in itself, is not a sign of the disease, and in the second it can talk about the development of a serious pathological process.

Thus, distracted attention can be characterized by the following clinical signs:

  • headache, ;
  •   and cognitive abilities;
  • poor performance, lost professional skills;
  •   sharp;
  • traits that previously were not characteristic of him may appear in a person’s behavior;
  • jumps in blood pressure;
  •   - drowsiness during the day, inability to fall asleep at night;
  • feeling tired even after a long rest;
  • decreased activity, including sexual activity;
  • inability to concentrate on small details;
  • a person can begin to lose personal belongings, forget to do the usual operations.

In children, distracted attention can be manifested as follows:

  • the child refuses to perform those operations where increased attention and perseverance is required;
  • school failure;
  • slowness;
  • can switch to another task by not completing the previous one;
  • sudden mood swings - activity and a cheerful mood can be replaced by fits of hysteria for no apparent reason;
  • hyper excitability;
  • bad memory.

It should also be understood that the presence of such signs in a child does not always indicate the presence of any disturbances in the body, it is quite possible that these are just features of psychological development. However, a consultation with a doctor is required.

Diagnostics

What to do and how to cope with distraction in a particular case can only be said by a doctor, after examination and clarification of the etiological factor and the complete clinical picture. In this case, you may need to consult clinicians of this specialization:

  • children’s;

The diagnostic program includes the following activities:

  • physical examination;
  • neuropsychological testing;
  • blood sampling for biochemical analysis;
  • CT, MRI of the brain;
  • electroencephalography;
  • doppler study of the vessels of the head;
  • genetic research.

According to the results of the study, the attending physician will be able to establish how to deal with distraction and prescribe effective treatment.

Treatment

Treatment, in this case, implies only an integrated approach, namely.

Hello dear friends! Recently, I often hear how different people complain about poor memory, therefore I propose today to talk about memory problems, especially since forgetfulness and distraction visit each of us from time to time.

I am sure that there will not be a single person who at least once in his life has not forgotten anything, whether it is to take the keys to the house or buy the necessary products in the supermarket. And how many times have you fumbled around looking for an object that actually lay in a prominent place? It would seem that these are all trifles, unworthy of attention, however, in some situations, memory impairment can warn of emerging health problems.

The simplest causes of poor memory that are easy to get rid of are spring vitamin deficiency and fatigue from lack of sleep. They took a vitamin complex, slept well and memory improves markedly. It is much more dangerous when this symptom indicates serious diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, or even a brain tumor. Of course, poor memory is not the only symptom of such diseases, all the symptoms must be considered together. Having identified the problem, it is much easier to take preventative measures. So:

  1. Stress and vitamin deficiency. Together with absent-mindedness, you experience a feeling, your working capacity decreases and problems with sleep appear, your eyesight worsens, your hair becomes dry, and your skin becomes problematic. All these symptoms indicate a lack of vitamins or stress. In this case, memory deteriorates slightly due to increased loads or vitamin deficiency.

You may be surprised that even a craze for diets can worsen your memory! An unbalanced diet leads to a violation of the intake of beneficial substances in the body, especially carbohydrates. It is a carbohydrate deficiency that causes memory problems.

What to do? If you are experiencing increased stress, make sure that your diet is correct and that your rest is complete. Take a break from business and begin to take care of your health. Make such an unloading day for yourself - mentally and physically, change the situation.

Take vitamins, it is especially important to do this in the spring and during increased mental stress. Vitamins B6 and B12, as well as E and C, are very important for the functioning of the brain. It is also worth adding (Vitamin B9), nicotinic acid (Vitamin B3 or PP) and iron. An excellent solution would be to take a complex containing all these substances in the right proportion.

  1. The causes of memory impairment include injuries. In almost all cases of traumatic brain injury, memory problems appear. Moreover, a person can forget not only the moment when and how the injury occurred, but also everything that preceded it, as well as the events after it. In addition to such amnesia, hallucinations, as well as memories that are created by the person himself, are possible. That is, a person recalls events and actions that actually were not.
  1. Separately, it is worth mentioning that memory impairment occurs in everyone who abuses   alcohol, cigarettes and drugs, and also enjoys drugs (especially sedatives and tranquilizers).
  1. Circulatory disorders. If pain in the eyes, swelling of the legs, frequent headaches, numbness in the extremities, dizziness and nausea join your forgetfulness, then you have problems with blood circulation. The brain does not receive enough oxygen, which leads to a deterioration in the functioning of blood vessels and organs, some of their parts may simply stop functioning. The most dangerous changes occur during a stroke.


What to do? If you have several of the symptoms described at once, it is time to go to a consultation with such doctors as a neurologist and cardiologist. If everything is not so serious, you can independently improve your blood circulation by adding vegetables and cereals (they are rich in fiber) to your diet, increasing physical activity (swimming and walking in the fresh air are especially good, daily morning gymnastics will also be a great habit) You will also benefit from vitamins C and E and regular massage.

  1. Thyroid problems. Often with diseases of the thyroid gland, drowsiness, a feeling of constant fatigue and muscle weakness, swelling, as well as constant changes in mood from irritability to depression are added to distraction and poor memory. To all this, eyebrows can thin out, nails become brittle, and skin is pale and dry. And in the appendage about the malfunctioning of the thyroid gland, you may be prompted by a loss of appetite with the appearance of extra pounds.

Most often, hormonal problems occur in women after 50 years. Do not carelessly treat endocrine diseases and let them drift, they can cause a serious malfunction in the functioning of the whole organism.

What to do? It is quite difficult to prevent a malfunction of the hormonal system, however, it is necessary to treat such problems, whether it is an excess of hormone production or, conversely, a decrease. First of all, adjust your diet and pay more attention to products containing iodine: seafood (fish and seaweed), nuts, persimmons, hard cheese, dairy products. And if you suspect a malfunction of the thyroid gland, you need to contact a specialist like an endocrinologist. The treatment that you will be recommended will depend on the nature of the particular problem.

  1. Multiple sclerosis   - This disease is a more serious problem in which there is a symptom of memory impairment. At the initial stage of the disease, emotional problems occur, which include apathy and depression. Other symptoms of sclerosis:
  • vision problems (begins to double in the eyes, appears blurred or color is lost),
  • appear at night,
  • there are problems with the coordination of movements (balance is lost, the handwriting changes, the head starts to feel dizzy),
  • problems with urination are common
  • sensitivity is disturbed (“goosebumps” appear on the skin or a feeling of “cottony” legs, the skin tightens, itching or burning appears on it, a sensation of tingling and numbness is possible).

The problem is that when the disease is at an early stage, the symptoms will not be obvious and they can be taken for the manifestation of other diseases. In addition to this, such signs of “flickering” either disappear or reappear.

In everyday life, sclerosis is often associated with simple forgetfulness, but this disease is much more serious. It leads to the death of nerves, serious changes occur in the body, which can lead to disability.

What to do? It is important to notice the problem while it is in its early stages, which will prevent it from progressing. It is worth paying attention to the appearance of the described symptoms, especially if they were preceded by a deterioration in memory. A timely visit to a neurologist will help stop the progression of the disease.

  1. Age changes. People aged often complain about the loss of short-term memory: they remember the events that happened many years ago, but forget what they just heard. In addition to this symptom, there are other symptoms characteristic of people aged, as well as patients with a diagnosis of Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease:
  • lethargy
  • feeling of lethargy
  • a person becomes impulsive, demanding, picky and selfish,
  • his range of interests is narrowing and there is no self-criticism,
  • lost orientation in the surrounding space and time,
  • the ability to self-service is lost, a person perceives himself to be a small child.

As you know, if you do not treat this disease, a person can lose a sense of reality and become completely helpless.

What to do? It is in your interests to do everything to prevent age-related memory impairment and senile dementia. You need to train your brain, learn and learn something new all the time: start learning some foreign language, count in your mind, solve crosswords, put puzzles or solve puzzles.

Train your memory. In addition to the actions that I have already recommended to you, you can try to choose something that will also help improve and strengthen your memory:

  • do your usual actions only with your eyes closed, or, if you're right-handed, try to do everything with your left hand, at least simple actions: comb your hair, brush your teeth;
  • start to be interested in what you were not interested in before - read articles on topics new to you;
  • engage in needlework or master its new look;
  • when working at a computer, learn to type in text “blindly” and with ten fingers;
  • visit new places, meet new people.

If you notice memory impairment, this is an alarming symptom; do not brush it off. It is worth contacting a specialist in order to detect incipient problems in the early stages. In this case, you can for many years not only maintain a good memory, but also your health.