Our memories are an integral part of who we are and, unfortunately, as we age, memory can be more difficult to control. Just like any other muscle in the body, our brain needs regular training to improve and maintain memory. Below we look at four ways to boost your memory.
Learn a New Skill
Learning is perhaps one of the easiest ways to boost memory. The more you do this, the stronger your brain will get. After a time, it will become easier and easier to learn something new, which will improve your brain’s memory capacity. Whether this is learning a language, a dance, or an instrument, learning is an important part of being human.
Change Your Diet
What you eat has a part to play when it comes to memory and brain function, so you should be eating a healthy and balanced diet. In particular, some foods can improve memory, as well as reduce the risk of memory-related illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s. These include lean meats, like chicken or turkey, fruits and vegetables, red wine (in moderation of course), olive oil, nuts, whole grains, legumes, and spices. Fatty fish is also one of the best foods for the brain, as it is packed full of omega-3 fatty acids, which can slow down cognitive decline.
Limit Medication Intake
There are some medications that you need to take no matter what, but there are others that could be limited with a change in diet or lifestyle choice. For example, statins, which are used for the treatment of high cholesterol, have been associated with brain fog and loss of memory. Eating healthier and losing weight will allow you to reduce weight naturally, which can improve your cholesterol levels, meaning you no longer need to take statins.
Other medications can impact your memory too, such as sleeping tablets, high blood pressure tablets, and antidepressants. If you are worried about your memory and think your medication is making it worse, you should speak to your doctor about switching medications and the pros and cons of each.
Move Your Body
Exercising has more benefits than purely physical; it has also been shown to improve your memory and brain capacity. Exercise can also help you manage stress levels, which is another contributing factor to memory issues. If you have a limited range of movement or struggle with high-intensity exercise, even going out for a walk can help to clear your head and increase the oxygen circulating in your body, which is essential for the creation of new brain cells.
As we age, memory can decline, which becomes an issue for those who want to live independently. A memory care facility such as Belmont Village Senior Living offers you or your loved one the chance to care for their memory, even with a condition such as dementia. They also have fitness classes tailored toward the mind and body.
It is never too late to train your brain and improve your memory. Whether you learn something new, change your diet, limit your medication intake, or start an exercise regime, these four things can help you to boost your memory.