Have you ever tried to call someone and realized… you don’t actually know their number? Or needed directions to a place you’ve been a dozen times, but still open Google Maps? You’re not alone. There’s a term for this — and it’s called Digital Amnesia.
So, what is Digital Amnesia?
Digital amnesia is when we forget information because we often rely on our devices to remember it for us and it includes things such as phone numbers, birthdays, appointments — stuff we used to memorize without even trying. Nowadays, it's a common practice that if we need to remember something, we just save it in our phones or take a screenshot. Recent studies too have shown that many people under 35 can’t remember important phone numbers, including those of really close family members.
Why does this happen?
It all comes down to how we use technology:
• 1. Trans active Memory:We’re used to Googling everything. So instead of remembering facts, we just remember where to find them.
•2.Information Overload: The internet bombards us with information constantly. The brain adapts by prioritizing over storage and so our phones and computers have become memory banks — we’ve clearly outsourced the job of remembering to our devices!
• 3. Cognitive Offloading:And let’s be real: it helps reduce mental load. It makes our lives a whole lot easier — but it also weakens our ability to recall information without the digital crutch.
Is it really a problem?
Not always. Letting tech handle the little things can free up space in our brains for more important stuff. But there’s a downside: when we rely too much on devices, we stop using and sharpening our own memory. Some experts say that relying wholly on digital tools can impede higher-level thinking. Others worry about the impact it has on human attention span and learning.
Plus, if your phone dies or you lose it, suddenly you're stuck. You can’t call anyone, don’t know where you’re going and can’t even access your notes!
What can we do about it?
If you want to keep your brain in the game, here are a few simple things to try:
•Memorize a few key things: like phone numbers of your close friends or your own address and even emergency contacts.
•Try to recall the answer first before instantly Googling— even if it’s just for fun.
•Write things down by hand — it helps you remember better than just typing.
•Limit distractions when you’re learning something new. Focus helps to retain memory.