Do we lose memories forever?
Ask the doctor
When we lose memories, do we lose them forever? A friend told me they may still be in our brains.Until recently, scientists assumed that memories lost because of dementia were permanently lost. Yet there was reason to question that, because memory loss can be fitful. Like me, you may have seen people with Alzheimer's disease who forget the name of their child until one afternoon, the name is there again. And, like me, maybe you've thought that the memories may not be permanently lost. Perhaps they're just buried deeper and are harder to access.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.