Too Much Information Can Cause Short Term Memory Loss
Almost everyone suffers from periodic short term memory loss and in most instances, it is nothing serious. However, when the short term memory, sometimes referred to as the working memory becomes completely unusable, it can be a sign of a more serious problem. Although most relate the suffering of short term memory loss to the aging process, there are other things that can influence the working memory and hide even some of the most wanted memories.
Consider the brain's memory function much like the memory in the computer. There are different areas in which memories are store, in the computer the working memory is similar to the random access memory, which is designed to only hold a certain amount of information. When the unit loses its power, short term memory loss occurs in the random access memory of the computer. Moving the information to a storage device for long term memory is like the brain moving the information to another part of the brain for longer storage.
Just as in a computer's random access memory, there are influences that determine how much information can be stored before short term memory loss occurs. It is sometimes jokingly stated that receiving too much information overwhelms the brain and short term memory loss occurs before the information can be moved to a more permanent storage space. This may not be that far from the reality of how the working memory functions.
Size Of Short Term Memory Varies
The amount of information that can be stored in a person's working memory will vary, but for most researchers have concluded that between five and nine segments of information can be processed and stored before short term memory loss is a threat. Doctors have established that an average of seven segments can be input into the short term memory, plus or minus two segments, to provide successful movement of the information into a more permanent memory location.
Consider when trying to remember a telephone number, most people will have a tough time attempting to recall a series of 10 digits. However, breaking in to three segments, the three-digit area code, the first three-digits and then the four numbers makes it easier to recall. By splitting the information into recognizable pieces, it also reduces the chance of it being subject to short term memory loss.
There are many different tricks in dealing with short term memory loss, but patients suffering due to medical problems may not have any success in helping their memory due to the medical influences on the brain.
