Speed of Forgetting: A Computational Biomarker and Early Indicator for Memory Impairment

Abstract

In our increasingly digital world, medicine and healthcare must advance accordingly. This work validates a model-based tool for quantifying forgetting and capturing general biological processes behind abnormal memory impairment. We introduce an online assessment tool for early detection of memory impairments. By using the computational biomarker 'Speed of Forgetting', our system transforms memory assessment with an easily interpretable and repeatable model. It detects impairments in just 8 minutes of online interaction, far surpassing traditional methods that require up to 3 hours in a clinical setting. This metric advances proactive memory care, enabling broad and affordable cognitive health monitoring across diverse populations.