As we age, our memories start to dwindle. Some say that these memories are replaced by newer, fresher memories, but try to tell that to a person attempting to recall the birth of a child or a first love. Try using the tips below to help improve the functions of your memory and help stop memory loss.
If you want to form lasting memories in the brain, try thinking of mnemonic devices to help you remember things. Shorthand writing is to writers the way mnemonic devices are to memory. You link some knowledge with a word or item that’s common, then you have a road map to that memory.
An easy way to improve your memory is to pay attention. If your mind is prone to wandering, you will miss crucial details of conversation. It is important to clear your thoughts and concentrate on what is going on around you. Consider the subject at hand and link it with things that you already know to solidify it in your memory.
To keep your memory at its best, purge negative and unpleasant thoughts from your mind. Studies have shown that stress and negative thoughts hinder the memory. Ask your doctor about ways to get rid of stress.
Even though your brain is not a physical muscle, it does need regular workouts to keep it sharp. A number of research studies demonstrate that playing puzzles and games keeps the brain functioning well as old age sets in.
Memory Games
Try playing memory games to better your skills. These games are engaging and entertaining and have the added benefit of improving your long-term memory. These games are also good for improving your attention and concentration skills. There are many free memory games available to play online.
Make sure you are getting an adequate amount of sleep. Both long-term and short-term memory can be affected by lack of sleep. If your mind is fatigued, you may become forgetful. Boost your brain power and memory by getting about eight hours of sleep nightly.
If you have trouble memorizing information, try making a mental picture of things you want to commit to memory. If you’re studying material from textbooks, try using charts and photos for visual cues to help you retain the information. A great way to get visual aids is to actually draw up your graphs, charts and other images to help you remember.
Get books on memory from a library to learn about this complex mechanism. There are a number of excellent books written by leading psychologists on topics relating to the brain and memory functions. You will find many useful tidbits of knowledge in these books that can help you in your quest for an improved memory.
A slipping memory is a tragic event for a mind advancing in age. Prescription drug interventions can help slow memory loss, especially in patients suffering from dementia.
A great method for strengthening your memory power is to serve as a teacher. Talking often about your special memories, such as those involving your children’s young lives, will help you to retain the memory longer. That will reinforce it in your mind, and make it harder to forget.
You should always try to learn more new things. When you don’t learn anything new, the part of your brain that controls memory isn’t being used. Unless you keep your mind sharp, you may find it more difficult to recall information when you need it.
Repeat Information
Repeat information you want to remember out loud. Practice repeating each name or fact that you want to learn out loud. When you say things out loud, you are helping ensure that the information sticks with you. Then, it is easier to remember at a later time. Repeat the information more than once, if possible. You can do this easily if nobody else is around. Develop a thick skin so that you can repeat information in public without embarrassment.
Sometimes lost memories can be gone for good. However, you can make sure you don’t lose new memories by following the advice in this article. Use the advice you have read, and learn how you can maintain a strong memory.