Table of Contents

This tip card helps survivors, therapists, clinicians, and families…

·        understand different types of memory

·        correct common myths about memory

·        lessen the effects of memory problems.

Memory Basics

·        Concept 1: There are different types of memory and they rely on different systems within the brain.

        Episodic memory

        Semantic memory

        Procedural memory

        Retrograde memory

·        Concept 2: Memory is not an island.

·        Concept 3:  Many people with severe memory impairments learn or relearn information best when it is presented "errorlessly" rather than by "trial and error" learning.

Myths and Facts about Memory

·        Myth 1:  My memory will not get better if I use my memory book because I won't exercise my brain.

·        Myth 2:  My husband only remembers what he wants to.

·        Myth 3:  It is best to have a person "try" and encourage the person to "think" about a target memory fact, rather than help supply the information.

·        Myth 4:  A person who won't use or abandons a strategy or system is not cooperating and not trying to get better.

Managing Memory Problems

·        Tips on teaching strategies and organizing the environment…

·        Tips on using errorless learning approaches…

·        Tips on making information meaningful…

·        Tips on examining your expectations and setting priorities…

Reference