What Affects Memory?People in there 50’s or 60’s generally begin to experience a decline in their ability to remember things. This age-associated memory impairment appears to affect short-term memory more than long-term memory. The process of retrieval also slows down with age. Other factors affecting memory include:
- some prescription drugs.
- fatigue.
- depression.
- poor nutrition.
- hearing and/or vision problem.
- alcohol overuse.
- brain trauma.
- certain diseases, e.g. stroke, Alzheimer’s.
- external distractions, e.g. noise.
- internal distractions, e.g. physical discomfort, emotions.
Memory Improvement Tips
Just as regular physical exercise helps your body to stay healthy, being mentally active helps your mind and memory to stay fit. Here are some ways to help you improve your memory:
1. Make up rhymes or songs.
2. Compose a mental picture.
3. Apply association. By linking new information with something that is already stored in long-term memory, your chance of remembering increases. For instance, you have just been introduced to a group of people and the only name you can remember is Sally because your sister’s name is Sally. Your mind has automatically associated the new Sally with the old Sally.
4. Make use of the five senses to store new information, whenever possible. For example, when you meet someone new, find the person’s unique characteristics by studying the person’s face and paying. attention to his/her voice. Wear prescription glasses or hearing aid when necessary.
5. Repeat and rehearse new information.
6. Eat a healthy diet. A poor diet can affect your overall health. There is no magic food or pill that can boost your memory. Contrary to traditional beliefs, eating animal brains will not improve your memory. In fact, animal brains are high in cholesterol and may clog up your arteries.
7. Get adequate rest. Concentration and learning decrease when you’re tired.
8. Stay mentally active. Play games that stimulate your memory, e.g. chess, bridge. Go to lectures or classes.
9. Stay physically active. Exercise improves the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
2. Compose a mental picture.
3. Apply association. By linking new information with something that is already stored in long-term memory, your chance of remembering increases. For instance, you have just been introduced to a group of people and the only name you can remember is Sally because your sister’s name is Sally. Your mind has automatically associated the new Sally with the old Sally.
4. Make use of the five senses to store new information, whenever possible. For example, when you meet someone new, find the person’s unique characteristics by studying the person’s face and paying. attention to his/her voice. Wear prescription glasses or hearing aid when necessary.
5. Repeat and rehearse new information.
6. Eat a healthy diet. A poor diet can affect your overall health. There is no magic food or pill that can boost your memory. Contrary to traditional beliefs, eating animal brains will not improve your memory. In fact, animal brains are high in cholesterol and may clog up your arteries.
7. Get adequate rest. Concentration and learning decrease when you’re tired.
8. Stay mentally active. Play games that stimulate your memory, e.g. chess, bridge. Go to lectures or classes.
9. Stay physically active. Exercise improves the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
Other Techniques To Help You
Remember1. Use memory aids:
- calendar or appointment books to keep track of birthdays, doctor’s appointment, payment due dates, etc. timer or alarm clocks to remind you to turn things on and off.
- notebooks to make lists and to write things down.
- medication organizers (boxes) to help you.
- remember when to take your medications.
2. Organize your home. Use file cabinets or drawers to keep important documents, bills, bank statements, etc. in order.
3. Designate a specific place for your personal items such as eyeglasses, wallet, and keys. Always put them in the same place each time.
4. Ask friends or family members to remind you.
