Strategies for Improving Memory

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reminds older adults that mild forgetfulness is more often a normal part of aging and not a serious memory problem. They explain serious problems generally involving things like the person asking the same question over and over again and getting lost in places they know well. They may also have trouble following recipes or directions and find themselves confused about people, places and time. 

If you are someone who is forgetting things, there are some steps you can take to feel more confident. These involve several simple things you can do, which will benefit your whole being like getting enough sleep (seven to eight hours a night), not drinking a lot of alcohol; and exercising and eating well. Managing high blood pressure is also important.

Other more practical tips to help with forgetfulness are putting your wallet or purse, keys, glasses and phone in the same place each day. Instead of assuming you will remember, write out shopping and need to-do lists and use a calendar or take notes. NIA says to get involved in activities that focus on using the mind and body and stay socially involved. If you feel depressed for weeks at a time, talk to your doctor. 

Strategies to improve forgetfulness include challenging our brains by learning new things as well as using all our senses. For example, prepare a new recipe that requires lots of spices. If you are eating out, try to identify the flavors and seasonings used in the meal. To help remember new information better such as names, places, etc., try repeating it out loud or writing it down as this reinforces the memory. For example, if you want to remember a new neighbor’s name, say it out loud back to them, like “hi Jack.” Then an hour or so later say the new neighbor’s name out loud again. 

At MorningStar at Jordan we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing comfort and security. Our beautiful home has 55 well-designed assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 29 memory care suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional dementia care in Centennial, Colorado.

MorningStar’s senior living communities have a passionate commitment to serving our residents, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest assisted living or dementia care in Centennial, Colorado, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan. Contact us to learn more.