Memory and concentration: understanding what affects them.

Concentration is the ability to keep our attention focused on information or a task. Memory enables us to encode, retain and retrieve information.

The two are closely linked: when attention is limited as new information arrives, that information may be harder to remember.

Tiredness can make it harder to sustain attention and remember information.

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can also affect concentration, learning and memory. This is why periods of fatigue sometimes give the impression that memory lapses are becoming more frequent.

There is no particular age at which memory suddenly begins to decline. Some cognitive abilities change gradually over time, and occasional lapses may become more common with age.

However, repeated or worsening difficulties, especially when they interfere with everyday life, warrant medical advice.

Yes. During periods of stress, heavy workloads or high demands, it can be harder to concentrate and occasional forgetfulness may become more common. This does not necessarily mean you have a memory disorder.

Yes. Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can lead to fatigue, drowsiness and difficulties with attention, concentration and memory. Sleep also plays an important role in learning and memory consolidation.

A healthy lifestyle helps support brain function: sufficient sleep, regular exercise, a varied diet, intellectual stimulation and social interaction. Continuing to learn, read, talk to others and discover new activities also helps keep cognitive abilities engaged.

When comparing food supplements, check the ingredients, quantities provided at the recommended dose, directions for use and precautions. A formulation should be clear and appropriate for its intended purpose. A food supplement complements a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle; it does not replace them.

Occasional, isolated lapses in memory are common. However, you should seek medical advice if problems become recurrent, more frequent, worsen or interfere with daily activities. Sudden memory problems, particularly when accompanied by speech difficulties, weakness in a limb, visual changes, disorientation or an unusual headache, require urgent medical attention.