594 Neurocognitive DisordersLearning and mem-
ory (immediate 
memory, recent 
memory [including 
free recall, cued 
recall, and recogni-
tion memory], 
very-long-term 
memory [semantic; 
autobiographical], 
implicit learning) Major:  Repeats self in conversation, often within the same con-
versation. Cannot keep track of short list of items when shop-
ping or of plans for the day. Requires frequent reminders to 
orient to task at hand.
Mild:  Has difficulty recalling recent  events, and relies increas-
ingly on list making or calendar. Needs occasional reminders 
or re-reading to keep track of characters in a movie or novel. 
Occasionally may repeat self over a few weeks to the same per-
son. Loses track of whether bills have already been paid.
Note:  Except in severe forms of major neurocognitive disorder, 
semantic, autobiographical, an d implicit memory are rela-
tively preserved, compar ed with recent memory. Immediate memory span: Ability to repeat a list of words or digits. 
Note:  Immediate memory sometimes subsumed under “working 
memory” (see “Executive Function”).
Recent memory:  Assesses the process of encoding new information 
(e.g., word lists, a short story, or diagrams). The aspects of recent 
memory that can be tested include 1) free recall (the person is asked 
to recall as many words, diagrams, or elements of a story as possi-
ble); 2) cued recall (examiner aids recall by providing semantic cues 
such as “List all the food items on the list” or “Name all of the chil-
dren from the story”); and 3) re cognition memory (examiner asks