Final answer:
Proactive interference is when older memories hinder the ability to recall newer memories, such as reciting an old phone number instead of a new one.
Step-by-step explanation:
When old memories interfere with a person's ability to recall newer memories, the phenomenon is known as proactive interference. This form of interference occurs when prior learning hinders the memory recall of newly acquired information. For instance, if you get a new phone number but keep reciting your old one, or when a new year begins, and you accidentally write the previous year instead of the current one, these are classic examples of proactive interference in action. It is a common memory issue alongside its counterpart, retroactive interference, where new information makes it challenging to remember old information.