What does prospective memory entail?

Prospective memory involves the ability to remember to perform intended actions in the future. This type of memory is critical for everyday functioning, such as remembering to take medication, attend appointments, or send an email at a specific time. It requires planning and the ability to retrieve an intention at the appropriate moment, distinguishing it from retrospective memory, which deals with recalling past events or information. In this context, the focus is on future actions rather than past experiences or sensory details. Thus, the definition aligns accurately with the characteristics of prospective memory.