Apr 13, 2026 15:00:00

What exactly is 'procedural memory,' which is hardly lost even in people with dementia? Is it possible to strengthen procedural memory?

Procedural memory refers to the type of memory that allows the body to move automatically without conscious thought, such as 'riding a bicycle,' 'knitting,' or 'playing a musical instrument.' Celia Harris, associate professor of cognitive science at Western Sydney University, and her colleagues explained that procedural memory is hardly lost even in people with dementia.

What is 'muscle memory' and can I improve mine?
https://theconversation.com/what-is-muscle-memory-and-can-i-improve-mine-277471

◆How is procedural memory acquired?
Procedural memory refers to actions and skills that can be performed without conscious thought, and is characterized by its difficulty in explaining them in words, hence it is also called 'non-declarative memory.' For example, when you ride a bicycle, you can unconsciously perform a series of actions such as 'grabbing the handlebars,' 'straightening the saddle,' 'releasing your feet and pedaling,' and 'continuing to pedal while maintaining balance,' but it is quite difficult to teach a child how to ride a bicycle using words.

Research suggests that the best and fastest way to improve procedural memory is through repetition. When acquiring new skills categorized as procedural memory, initially you have to consciously practice to do things in the correct way and order. However, with repeated practice, these skills become automatic and can be performed with little conscious effort.

Acquiring and maintaining procedural memory requires the coordinated work of multiple areas of the brain. This is because different neural processes are used in the 'active learning stage' and the 'automatic performance stage.'

First, in the 'active skill learning stage,' the prefrontal cortex and preparetary lobe, which are associated with attention, memory, and conscious, effortful thinking, are primarily used. Then, as you begin to practice the skill repeatedly and reach the 'automatic action stage,' you gradually begin to rely on sensorimotor circuits that process sensory information received from the outside world and help the brain determine the optimal physical response. This allows you to perform complex tasks automatically with little to no conscious effort.

◆Do diseases such as dementia affect procedural memory?
Harris et al. state, 'The interesting thing about procedural memory is that it is hardly affected by cognitive decline. The most difficult tasks for people with dementia or other cognitive impairments are generally those that require conscious effort. However, they often retain more unconscious skills that they have developed throughout their lives. That's why you sometimes encounter people with dementia who can knit or dance the tango, even though they struggle to remember the names of loved ones.'

Previous research and anecdotal evidence suggest that music has a particularly strong influence on procedural memory. A Canadian

study involving patients with Alzheimer's disease, which affects memory, cognition, and behavior, showed that patients were better able to remember words when they heard them as songs rather than simply spoken words.

It has also been suggested that procedural memory may enable people with cognitive impairments to acquire new skills. An Australian study reported that when a woman with severe Alzheimer's disease and no prior musical experience was taught to sing, she was able to learn entirely new songs.

◆Is it possible to strengthen procedural memory?
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to strengthen procedural memory, and acquiring new skills requires diligent repetition. To maximize the effectiveness of practice, it is said that 'practicing in multiple sessions' is helpful. This requires you to consciously recall actions that you could previously perform unconsciously, thus forming longer-term procedural memories. Additionally, getting sleep after practice is also thought to help with memorizing new skills.

Harris and colleagues stated, 'Improving procedural memory takes time and effort, but it is well worth it. The newly acquired skills will enrich your life, and the skills you continue to hone throughout your life will help you stay connected to the people and memories you cherish, even if your cognitive function declines.'