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Have you noticed that it’s getting more difficult to remember details as you age? This forgetfulness is very common and will increase if you do not actively take steps to improve your memory.
Memory is critical to learning and is the basis for which you understand the world around you. It is also what makes you remember your happiest times, the people you love, and the times you shared with them. There is an emotional impact to losing memories. It is frustrating and disappointing, and upsetting.
Let’s talk about a few proven methods to keep your memory sharp, and where you can go in Southeast Michigan for outstanding neurology care.
#1 Get Adequate Sleep
Sleep is the time to recharge. It is also a critical time when things you learned during the day become consolidated and stored. If the sleep is interrupted or of poor quality, there may be some hiccups in the process that can affect how efficiently you store memory. Aim for at least six hours of sleep every night or as advised by your physician.
#2 Test Your Memory
Use techniques that test your memory to keep your memory sharp. For instance, play memory games, summarize what you have learned from the book or article you just read or the new recipe you just learned or directions to a place you’ve just been to. You can establish new connections in your brain by repeating them.
#3 Utilize Mnemonics
Mnemonics are the study of systems for improving and assisting memory. Mnemonics can help you remember large chunks of information. Mnemonic devices include name mnemonics, which are the names that make up the initial letters of words, and rhyme mnemonic, which involves recalling pertinent information in the form of a poem. There are other types of mnemonics worth learning if those can help you increase your memory capability.
#4 Relate New Information to Information You Already Know
With every new thing you learn, find a way to relate it to old information stored up in your memory. This creates more synaptic connections which increase the likelihood of you retaining the new information you have just learned.
#5 Use Spaced Repetition
The spaced repetition method is an effective learning approach. It involves reinforcing information in your mind by spacing out your learning until complete knowledge of the subject or other has been fully stored in your long-term memory. You need to keep getting back to the subject at different intervals (e.g., with the use of flashcards) until you have learned it completely.
Loosing memory may lead to dementia. Dementia is a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, and memory loss from dementia is not a normal part of aging. If you suspect that you or a loved one has this condition, seek medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Dementia in Southeast Michigan
Losing your memory is worrying, and anyone who is going through it needs the support of an expert team of neurology specialists. The physicians at Associates in Neurology provide compassionate care for patients with dementia. We use a range of tests to accurately diagnose dementia and design treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your working memory.
To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call our clinic today at (248) 478-5512 or use our convenient online request form. Our main office is in Farmington Hills, but we also have locations in Novi, Southfield, Howell, and Brighton.
