Non-amnestic

Referring to a condition or state where the individual does not experience memory loss or amnesia. This term is used medically and psychologically to distinguish individuals, experiences, or conditions that are *not* characterized by a disruption of memory. It implies that the person retains the ability to recall past events, learn new information, and have access to their existing memories, as expected in a typical cognitive state. The opposite is generally considered 'amnestic', signifying the presence of memory impairments. The term is valuable in patient diagnosis and treatment.

Non-amnestic meaning with examples

• Following the accident, Sarah underwent neurological testing, with results demonstrating no significant memory deficits; her condition was diagnosed as non-amnestic, enabling healthcare professionals to focus on other symptoms. This contrasted with the reported amnesia from the car's other occupant. Her comprehensive assessment revealed no interference to the consolidation of new memories nor any loss of old memories.
• The study investigated the effects of a new cognitive enhancer on older adults. Participants were screened to ensure they were non-amnestic, meaning they had no pre-existing memory problems. The treatment's impact could thus be reliably measured, as changes in cognitive ability, memory, and processing speed would have a reliable baseline. No subjects experienced memory degradation during the duration of the study.
• While suffering a head injury, John experienced a brief period of confusion but retained all of his memories and, therefore, was considered non-amnestic in the assessment performed in the ER. This contrasted markedly with the more serious conditions of some other patients. His recall of the incident confirmed that it was not associated with anterograde amnesia (difficulty forming new memories) or retrograde amnesia (loss of prior memories).
• A therapist evaluated a patient reporting anxiety and depression. The patient's history included no incidents of trauma that would be expected to cause amnesia. The therapist determined that they were non-amnestic, enabling the utilization of cognitive-behavioral therapies that required the patient's active participation in recalling and analyzing past experiences; therefore, the therapist proceeded with this type of treatment.