What does the term 'prospective memory' refer to?

The term 'prospective memory' specifically refers to the ability to remember to perform actions in the future, such as remembering to attend a meeting, take medication at a certain time, or complete a task by a designated deadline. This type of memory is crucial for everyday functioning, as it involves planning and executing intentions that are yet to be realized. It requires individuals to rely on cues or reminders to trigger the memory of future events.

Understanding prospective memory is essential because it encompasses not just the intention to remember the task but also the execution of that intention at the appropriate time in the future. This makes it distinctly different from recalling past events or information, which are associated with retrospective memory.