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Improving
Everyday Memory |
| Tracey Cousineau - Outreach Manager |
| 10/8/2008 |
No matter what your age, it is not too late to take steps to reduce memory loss. Most of us express dissatisfaction with our memory, especially when we want to recall some detail and we can't. This may worsen as we get older as the ability to focus our attention and absorb information declines with age and contributes to age-related memory loss. The good news is that there are many ways to challenge your mind and stay sharp.
Physical fitness and mental fitness go together. Exercise can help memory in several ways. First, it is good for your lungs, and people who have good lung function are sending a higher volume of oxygen through their blood vessels and into their brains. Second, exercise helps reduce the risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and stroke — diseases that can lead to memory loss.
Not being able to concentrate is one of the main causes of poor learning and memory. Being tired or under a great deal of stress makes it more difficult to concentrate. Try to set up a regular sleep schedule and routine by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. Avoid excessive napping during the day because napping can disrupt your natural sleep cycle. For some people, taking a brisk walk, listening to music, meditating, talking to a friend, gardening or knitting may help cope with stressful situations.
Sometimes the best way to
remember something is not to have to remember it at all. If you can,
write it down because this helps keep it in your memory.
You can also take the memory out of routine problems such as
finding car keys, wallets, and purses by having a single spot to keep
them in, such as a bowl or a hook by the door. Park your car in the same
kind of place each time, such as near a lamp post.
Making a point of varying your routine can help keep your mind active and engaged. Mental challenges come from the unexpected events that take you out of your daily routines and make you think, such as planning day trips or longer vacations, or meeting regularly with friends. Other mental challenges include doing crossword puzzles, reading, playing games, cooking new recipes or taking classes. There are also several programs such as Meals for Me, bingo, quilting and exercise classes in your area. Call Tracey at Health Access Network, 794-6700 or 1-866-426-4584, if you are interested in keeping you mind sharp by participating in social or recreational activities.