Introduction
In general, forgetfulness and memory lapses are familiar to many, especially older adults. Initially manifesting itself as absent-mindedness and inattention, this pathology gradually progresses. In some cases, memory disorders in old age lead to a loss of self-service skills and a person’s complete dependence on the help of others. Forgetting is a universal phenomenon that affects all individuals to a greater or lesser extent.
Common Memory Lapses
Frequently, individuals tend to disregard minor particulars, and it is natural and normal to forget, for instance, passwords from social media pages, phone numbers, or the names of new acquaintances. According to Scotti and Maxey (2022), certain items, such as essential appointments or confidential details, may be deemed peculiar if overlooked. Forgetting relatives’ names, a house’s address, where documents are stored, and more are abnormal.
Stereotypes About Aging and Memory
A stereotype of learning new things suggests that older adults cannot comprehend and remember further information. Thus, the National Institute on Aging (2020) claims that the confusion stereotype implies that older adults are prone to confusion and disorientation, particularly in new or unfamiliar environments. In addition, the dementia stereotype suggests that all older adults eventually develop dementia, a severe and irreversible decline in cognitive functioning.
Social Expectations and Memory Performance
Social expectations affect older adults’ memory since they may become anxious while confirming their age, interfering with their memory performance. Due to societal stereotypes, older people may give up on the fight against their ailments. They may be less motivated to engage in memory exercises or use memory aids (National Institute on Aging, 2020). Society often stigmatizes older people, regarding them as unnecessary, especially when hiring; these people have fewer opportunities to develop their memory.
Myths and Reality of Aging
Myths give rise to stereotypes, prejudices, and biased attitudes towards older adults, who lose their sanity and memory at their age. In contrast, reality is based on empirical evidence that can be observed, measured, and tested through scientific inquiry (Cunningham, 2019). Therefore, one should trust the proven facts because even in old age, one can have a clear mindset, and preventive measures will help to preserve it.
Conclusion
Forgetfulness is entirely normal, but not in all cases. With age, signs of forgetfulness become more apparent, and a person may forget a relative name or even their home address. Many stereotypes about this information are ingrained in society, and social expectations can further contribute to the problem in an adult. However, it is more important to trust actual, verified facts than myths from word of mouth.
References
Cunningham, M. (2019). Introduction to myths and realities associated with research and theorizing for human development. Research in Human Development, 16(1), 1–4. Web.
National Institute on Aging. (2020). Memory, forgetfulness, and aging: What’s normal and what’s not?. National Institute on Aging. Web.
Scotti, P. S., & Maxey, A. M. (2022). Directed forgetting of pictures of everyday objects. Journal of Vision, 22(10), 1-13. Web.