Everyone wants a sharp memory, especially as they grow older. There are many things you can do right now to give your memory a much-needed boost! Consider the following tips to help prevent senior memory loss:
1. Participate in brain-boosting activities. These are any activities that teach you something new or challenge you. They could include learning to play an instrument, playing a board game, learning a new language, etc.
2. Socialize regularly. Social interaction can prevent senior isolation and the depression and stress that can come with it. Spending more quality time with friends and family or getting out and meeting new people can certainly assist with the prevention of memory loss.
3. Stay organized. It can be easier to forget things when your home is consistently messy, or your calendar is disorganized. Try writing a to-do list and creating a special place where you keep essential items like your purse/wallet, keys, etc.
4. Get some rest. Sleep plays a significant role in maintaining your memory, creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills! To help you achieve the best possible sleep, try to develop a sleep routine where you go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day.
5. Maintain a healthy diet. Maintaining a healthy diet is important not only for your physical health but your mental health as well. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in fats and sugars could improve your memory and concentration.
6. Engage in regular physical activity. It’s amazing what just a 30-minute walk can do! Exercise does more than increase blood flow through your body, build muscles, and help you maintain a healthy weight. It can also help prevent diseases that can result in memory loss such as diabetes, stroke, and high cholesterol.
7. Learn how to manage stress. High levels of stress can negatively impact your quality of sleep, which is needed to maintain your memory. When you’re stressed, your body increases the production of the stress hormone cortisol, which makes it hard for your brain to recall information.
8. Laugh! Laughter really is the best medicine! A good laugh can help lower cortisol (stress) levels, which can help you retain information better and prevent short-term memory loss.
9. Manage health issues. If you are currently dealing with a chronic condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, etc. make sure you are following your doctor’s treatment recommendations. Also, talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of your prescribed medications, as some can affect memory.
10. Stop smoking. If you currently smoke, you might want to think about quitting. Nicotine and the countless other chemicals in cigarettes can significantly damage brain cells and lead to a decrease in learning and memory.
