6 Factors That Inhibit Memorization


Collecting and processing information depends on various factors such as material available and its presentation. The ability to retain information

varies from one person to the next. Below are 6 factors that inhibit memorization:

Sleep Deprivation

Inadequate sleep reduces the ability to hold onto data. Lack of sleep is thought to mimic the effects of aging on memory. It is especially apparent in people who suffer from daytime sleepiness which is a clue that sleep is lacking.

Killing Brain Cells

We may have a few cocktails and joke the next morning that we killed a few brain cells but in fact, it is no joke.  Alcohol does destroy nerve connections in the brain that ultimately lead to memory loss.

Lack of Purpose

We have a stronger chance of remembering something that we actually use on a regular basis.  A skill learned for a specific task has to be strengthened by repetition.  If the skill is never used it will eventually fade to the point that it can no longer be recalled or used.

Physical Aging

While aging is a natural process, steps need to be taken to mediate memory loss. Left to nature much memory can be lost with age. Exercise and brain games can slow and even eliminate this memory loss. Physical aging also brings hormonal changes which can also cause temporary retention problems.

Disease

Certain diseases of dementia are obvious cases that inhibit memorization. But many less obvious diseases can also be culprits. Any conditions that affect blood flow to the brain have the ability to inhibit memory. Cardiovascular diseases, including high cholesterol and atherosclerosis are just a few.

Medication

Just as disease can inhibit memorization, so too can some medications.  Specifically, drugs that block acetylcholine are taken for a number of conditions including depression, acid reflux disease, allergies and sleep problems. Not all acetylcholine blockers are prescription which makes it important to list over the counter drugs when discussing memory problems with your doctor.

The important take away is if you are having problems with memory, you will need to put on your detective hat and look at many areas to hopefully reverse factors that inhibit memorization.