Types of Memory

Memory is a recording of one’s experiences stored in the brain – be it an interesting conversation, a piece of information, a “memorable scene,” or notable event. There are 3 types of memories differentiated by the time lapse between the experience and the recall of that experience. Each type of memory activates different brain areas when one attempts to recall it.

Working memory resides in the frontal lobe and lasts less than a minute. This form of memory is commonly referred to as one’s attention span and lasts up to one minute before being erased. Trying to memorize and dial a telephone number that someone just gave you is an example of working memory.

Short-term memory resides in the medial temporal lobe and lasts a few minutes to a few weeks before being erased. When you try to recall a conversation or a phone number learned a few minutes to a few weeks ago, these brain areas are activated. Not all of one’s moment-to-moment experiences activate short-term memory. Only those experiences that are novel, interesting, or those that one intended to remember will sufficiently stimulate nerve cells in the medial temporal lobe to record them.

Long-term memory can last a lifetime. Scientists are not yet certain which brain areas are directly involved in long-term memory. When one tries to recall their first love, or the name of a school they went to as a child, they are accessing their long-term memory.

• Types of Memory
• Memory Problems
• Understanding and Treating Memory Loss
• Medical Tests to Consider to Evaluate Memory Problems
• Supplements That May Be Helpful to Enhance Memory