It is normal as people grow older to forget things more than in the past. This happens to people who don’t have dementia of any kind, yet many seniors become anxious that their lapses in memory may have a concerning cause. Fears about losing memory function can actually make people perform poorly on memory tests, so it’s important to have confidence in your brain’s ability to remember. There are also things you can do every day to improve memory retention as you age. Whether you or a loved one is considering a senior memory care facility or simply wants to strengthen those memory muscles, Buckner Retirement Services can help.
To learn about memory and aging as well as senior habits for memory retention, reach out to Bucker today by calling 214.227.7182. A proven way to stay mentally healthy is to be in a community with others and maintain meaningful relationships. One way to do that is to retire in one of Buckner’s six locations in Texas—luxurious and chock full of activities, friendly neighbors, and services to enhance your quality of life.
Daily Habits to Improve Memory Retention for Seniors
While there is no magic formula for avoiding memory slippage later in life, there are habits that can enhance brain health and strong memory. Below are a few strategies for improving memory for seniors:
Healthy Sleep Habits and Nutrition
When it comes to day-to-day healthy living, what you eat and how well you sleep are critical at any age, in large part because these habits provide exactly what the brain needs to operate the complex system known as You. Memory slips are more likely when you do not get good—or enough—sleep or eat nutritious food—ideally lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, quality protein, and very limited fatty, sugary, or processed foods.
Tend to Your Medical Needs
If you have any medical conditions, from hypertension to hearing loss to depression, follow a trusted doctor’s advice and do what you can to stay healthy and minimize risk factors. A healthy body and mind are linked. Also, check in with your physician to make sure you’re not on any medications that might affect memory.
Maintain Physical Activity
Daily exercise pumps blood through your body and brain. It keeps the heart healthy so it can efficiently pump oxygen into your organs for years to come, helping maintain general health and memory.
Keep Your Brain Busy
A sharp mind can be kept by playing brain games like crossword puzzles, sudoku, or Wordle. Learn new skills. Take up an instrument or learn a foreign language. Your brain also stays keen when you engage with other people, so volunteering, socializing, or joining a book or mahjong club can help, too.
Give Your Brain Rest
Just as important as a busy brain is a rested one. Repeated habits help you conserve memory space for important things. Always put your keys, glasses, and wallet in the same spot, use calendar reminders for appointments, and take your meds and vitamins at the same times every day. The fewer little daily things you have to consciously keep track of, the more your brain can focus on more noteworthy items.
As people age, everyone is interested in improving their health and giving themselves the best chance at living a long, healthy life. That includes looking after your brain health and tapping into senior habits for memory retention. Putting these daily habits to improve memory retention for seniors into practice can be what helps you live more satisfying senior years.
When to Have Your Memory Tested
If you are worried about memory loss or think you may be experiencing more forgetfulness now than in the past, mention it to your doctor. How do you know that’s the right step? Ask yourself if memory issues are getting in the way of daily tasks. Has a close friend or family member mentioned signs of memory erosion? The sooner you address any concerns you have, the sooner you know if they are unfounded, and if there are signs of memory issues, you’ve caught it early and can receive medical interventions, which often can significantly slow down the progress of a memory concern.
Your doctor may give you some simple memory and cognitive tests and a physical exam. There are many explanations for diminished memory retention, from medication side effects to sleep apnea to cardiovascular issues.
Schedule a Tour at Buckner Retirement Services Today for Senior Memory Care Solutions
The Buckner staff is experienced and professional and can answer questions you may have about memory, brain health, and cognitive function. We advise our residents about strategies to improve memory and encourage full transparency with their primary care physician.
Connect today by submitting our online contact form or calling 214.227.7182. We look forward to answering your questions.