As you age, it’s common to find your memory not as sharp as it once may have been. You may wonder what can be done to maintain a sharp memory. Within this article, we present a number of methods of recovering your memory capabilities.
One great memory technique involves simply paying attention. You may think you’re focusing your attention, but you mind may actually be wandering instead of focusing efficiently. Do your best to clear your mind and focus on what is being said and shown. Focus on the topic at hand and imprint the information onto your memory.
Write sticky notes to help yourself remember to complete tasks. Place them in conspicuous locations that you frequent, such as on your computer monitor or near your cell phone. Simple and effective, sticky notes are an easy fix for coping with forgetfulness.
Losing those unpleasant or negative thoughts can improve a person’s memory. Studies have found that people who frequently think negatively or are stressed out aren’t able to remember as well as people who avoid stress and negativity. Consult with a physician to find healthy methods of stress relief.
Much like your muscles, your brain requires regular workouts to remain strong and sharp. Research has documented that puzzle playing wards off senility.
Fish Oil
Add fish oil to your diet. If you find your memory isn’t as good as it used to be, you should try adding Omega-3 to your diet. Supplements of fish oil can be bought to bring Omega-3s into your diet.
If you must remember something, try to associate it with a funny song, mental image, or phrase. If you associate the information with something that makes you laugh, it will be far easier to retrieve it when necessary.
Take a few moments to link the information that needs to be memorized to something that has already been committed to memory. This is how the brain recalls information. When it can draw a link to something familiar, new information is easily retained for longer periods. Plus, the relational exercise will more than likely speed up the memorization process!
Memory Loss
Memory loss can be tragic for the aging mind. For those suffering from serious memory loss, there are a number of medical treatments available today including prescription medications.
If you’re in a situation where someone’s told you something that you’re struggling to remember, you might want to reword it in a unique way, and then attempt to commit it to memory. People often struggle to remember words or concepts that do not feel like their own.
Get plenty of well-deserved rest. Studies have proven that getting the right amount of sleep is crucial to memory function. If you can’t concentrate due to poor sleep, committing learned facts to long-term memory will be difficult.
You can help maintain or enhance cognitive abilities by taking a supplement of fish oil every day. Fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve memory. Getting the right dosage is important, so consult you doctor prior to taking this supplement.
When working on memorizing material, study frequently over several short sessions. This strategy gives you more time to think about what you’ve learned, and remember it. There have been studies that have found that people who utilize this method can remember information better than people who attempt to learn all of the information at one time.
Mnemonic devices can help you learn and retain important information you may not be able to otherwise. Mnemonics means to mentally pair the detail that you need to remember with other material that you already know. It’s common for a mnemonic device to use the melody of a song or to involve rhyming. They make remembering things more fun and make studying a lot less frustrating.
Don’t study only the minimum that is necessary. Study more. It is easier to remember something when your knowledge about it is more than basic. For example, if you want to know the meaning of a word, you should read all about it.
Exercise increases circulation, helping the brain function, and therefore aiding memory. You will find remembering and processing information much easier if your body is healthy. Exercise also pumps more oxygen to the brain, keeping it healthy and staving off problems that cause memory loss. If you partake in regular exercise, you are promoting the activation of brain cells.
A great tip to improve memory is always to try and remember any information that is new to you. When you have new information you need to remember, relate it to information you already know. By creating a bond between two separate ideas, you are making the most of an already familiar concept.
Have you ever been driven crazy because you “almost, but not quite” remembered something? Learn to accept that memory loss happens to everyone. Relax and breathe, then start saying memories or other words that you associate with the forgotten word. Doing this should help you remember the word.
You can overcome frustrating memory failures. By using this advice, you will find your memory improving soon. With regular practice, you may find your memory is stronger than ever.