subject: Memory Improvement Tips For Seniors [print this page] This is especially helpful for seniors that want to stay sharp and lessen their difficulties in remembering. As people age, they tend to lose their memory. It can be both disheartening and frustrating. According to several studies, there are a number of things that friends, family members and home caregivers can do to assist seniors with improvement of recall.
The brain is a muscle. It needs to be stimulated and exercised to work to its potential. Several different techniques can be used to improve memory. The idea is to change the habits of the brain by forcing it to create new pathways for neurotransmitters which, in turn, improves the ability to remember.
Change
One method is to change the normal habits of doing things by switching up natural movements. For example, instead of using the dominant hand to open things or perform tasks, seniors should try to use their non-dominant hand. Eating with the left hand instead
of the right may be challenging, which is good exercise for the brain. When opening the door or brushing their hair, they can do it with their opposite hands. This forces the brain to concentrate on acts which are normally done without much thought. Another method is to do routine things differently, such as getting dressed or putting on makeup with their eyes closed. This forces the brain to process the experience in a different manner. For example, buttoning a button that cannot be seen stimulates the thought processes that are normally taken for granted.
Physical Remedies
There are many habits that can improve memory by reducing the risk of health problems that cause memory loss. Heart disease and diabetes, for example, can degrade the ability to recall memories. While some seniors have mobility issues, those who do not can use physical activity to stimulate the brain. Those with mobility problems can use the assistance of an at-home health care provider to walk and exercise more. Walking every day stimulates the production of oxygen that goes to the brain. They can also partake in activities that diminish stress levels, such as light yoga or meditation exercises. Smoking restricts the flow of oxygen to the brain. By cutting back or quitting tobacco use, this lessens the chances of having a stroke or developing asthma or emphysema. While sleeping, the brain assimilates and consolidates memories. Getting plenty of rest will also improve the ability to retain and recall memories.
