Something new under the sun has been discovered! Novel findings are frequently associated with new technologies. Such was the case at hand. By utilizing a sophisticated computer algorithm that identified the simultaneous firing of geographically disparate nerve cells in human brains, a new functional brain system was identified. It is referred to as the "Default Mode Network" (DMN).  Examples of existing, well understood neural systems include the oculomotor system (that keeps our eyes tracking together in a way that focuses the visual image on the fovea, the central part of the retina where detailed image processing is performed), the auditory system (that allows us to make sense of the sounds we hear), the visual system (that enables us to compose a visual image from the electrical responses generated when light contacts our eyes) and the somato-motor system (that allows us to perform coordinated motor tasks such as writing and walking).

The anatomic underpinnings of the DMN comprise a disseminated group of nodes connected electrically by long, thin nerve fibers. Think of them like cities linked by superhighways. What fascinated researchers from the outset was the observation that when the brain was engaged in any one of a number of different task-oriented mental chores, the default mode became inactivated. However, during pensive non task-directed moments it became intensely stimulated. Examples of this type of non-task directed mental stimulation include introspective rumination, consideration of self-referential thoughts, reflection about past events, wondering what others might be thinking, mulling over the future, free-associating or what might be referred to as daydreaming. These are some of the most cogent mental functions the brain is called on to perform.

Components of the default mode network include portions of the medial prefrontal cortex and medial parietal cortex (called the precuneus). Not included in the default mode network, but intimately linked to it, is a small, yet vital region called the hippocampus. It plays a pivotal role in processing and calling up memories. A typical, hippocampally mediated association task is the assignment and recollection of the relationship between names and faces.  Being introduced to a stranger and then promptly forgetting his name is the prototypical senior moment. Understanding the role the DM network (especially the precuneus) and the hippocampus play in this frustrating scenario might help prevent it from happening in the future.

Let's walk through a typical social encounter. Consider a block party where there is a large crowd of unfamiliar people, noise and energy, and then throw in the anxiety and stress of meeting a host of new neighbors. For many persons this setting constitutes the "Perfect Storm" of circumstances that foment forgetting, especially when one's memory is not in top form to start with. What happens when you are tasked with remembering your next door neighbor's sister's name involves several steps. Number one is the deactivation of the DM system. This requires conscious input. You must clear your mind of the events of the day, what you need to do after the party, who else might be attending, what their agenda is and so forth. Some times it is helpful to use a note pad to write down what you need to buy at the grocery store, and to free up mental energy for other tasks such as remembering new names. Stress and anxiety make it difficult for the DM to disengage, as does sleep deficiency. When this is the case, the brain must "juggle' many mental balls simultaneously (default mode threads as well as the task at hand). Much like any multi-tasking situation, you probably perform poorly at each of the multiple things you try to do. So, freeing up your mind (allowing your DM to relax) is the first step to remembering.

The next thing that is required is to activate your hippocampus. That involves focusing your attention on the task at hand. You must concentrate, get actively engaged and remain focused. Start out by looking directly into the eyes of the person you have been introduced to. This issues a directive to your brain that this person is a high priority and must be attended to. After learning his name, repeat it to yourself and then again out loud by saying something like, "Frank, it is a pleasure to meet you. I have heard so much about you from you sister." This reinforces the connection and strengthens the memory trace you are establishing.

So hopefully the next time you find yourself in this type of social circumstance, you will think about what cutting-edge science has taught you about senior moments and how to avoid them. Just remember, that to remember you must turn off the default mode and turn on the hippocampus.