Bad memory does not mean bad news

• April 18, 2024

A large number of older adults are worried about the memory loss .

Every day and more often, it is hard to remember names, numbers or objects and live with the fear that it is the first sign of Alzheimer's.

Previously it was believed that memory loss and confusion They were part of the normal process of aging, but this is no longer the case.

Today, several studies indicate that most people stay alert and have good use of their faculties as they get older, although it may take a little longer to remember things.

The specialists of the National Institute on Aging of the United States (NIA, for its acronym in English) indicate that a combination of small mental exercises, healthy habits and a healthy diet, are the key to exercise memory at any age, not just the of older adults.

It must be taken into account that a successful aging depends on the attitude of people towards this new stage of life. Staying healthy is the first step to have the best health conditions and avoid the disorders of an accident.

Tips to exercise memory

Solving crosswords and sudoku, memorizing the super list or remembering the characters in a book or movie are some of the many recommendations of the NIA. Experts point out that data are more easily retained if they are written, so it is advisable to write them down or have an agenda that reminds us of tasks, activities or appointments.

To review the information as soon as they have given it to us, and to try to remember it after 24 hours and a week later, is a way of doing brain exercise. Learning mnemonics techniques, this is the mental association of ideas, schemes, systematic exercises or repetitions, trying to remember rare or unusual words by associating with simple things, or connecting mentally with known songs or verses that have a special meaning, are other ways to train the memory.

The enemies of memory

Alcohol, tobacco and drugs are the main enemies since they favor the proliferation of free radicals and interfere in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which harms brain activity.

Stress, anxiety or depression can make an older person forget things more frequently. However, these forgetfulnesses are generally temporary and disappear when those disorders are overcome.

In any case, if this state of mind persists for a long time, it is important to seek the help of a professional who will indicate the most appropriate treatment and which may include psychotherapy, medication or a combination of both. Finally, the lack of rest hinders the assimilation and memorization of what we have learned throughout the day, that is why it is vital to achieve a good sleep.

Video Medicine: Why 'Minor' Memory Loss May Be a Bad Sign (April 2024).