Johns Hopkins Health Alert
Four Strategies To Stretch Your Memory
- Proven strategies can improve overall memory ability at any age.
Although age-associated memory impairment is common and is not a sign of a serious neurological disorder, it can be frustrating and socially embarrassing. There is no way to eliminate completely the minor memory lapses that occur with age-associated memory impairment—but a number of strategies can improve overall memory ability at any age.
- Place commonly lost items in the same spot. If you are prone to losing certain items, such as keys or eyeglasses, choose a place to leave them, and always put them in that spot when not using them.
- Write things down. If you have trouble remembering phone numbers or appointments, write them down and place the list in a conspicuous spot. Making a daily “to do” list can serve as a reminder of important tasks and obligations. In fact, the mere acts of writing notes and making lists reinforce memory.
- Say words out loud. Saying “I’ve turned off the stove” after shutting off the stove will give you an extra verbal reminder when you later try to recall whether it is still on. Incorporating people’s names into the conversation just after you have met them will serve the same purpose. For example, saying “Very nice to meet you, Jennifer” will help consolidate the memory of this name.
- Use memory aids. Use a pocket notepad, personal digital assistant, wristwatch alarm, voice recorderor other aids to help remember what you have to do or to keep track of information.
Posted in Memory on April 17, 2006
Reviewed June 2011
Medical Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute for the advice of a physician. Click here for additional information: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Disclaimer
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Is lecithin helpful to improve memory by increasing the synthesis of acetilcholine? If yes, how much is therapeutic (100mg,etc.)?
Posted by: kintaro | May 19, 2006 8:11 PM
Several studies on lecithin use in normal and Alzheimer's patients have been done, but nothing conclusive was ever demonstrated. You can find out more at www.pubmed.gov, search lecithin and memory and you will see summaries of the major findings published in various medical journals.
Posted by: Jo | May 22, 2006 6:10 PM
I have the White Paper on Memory and it's full of good info. I recommend it!
Posted by: Marjorie | May 23, 2006 10:02 AM
I recently read an article which said that learning new things and challenging the brain can help keep it sharp.
Posted by: KathrynElalouf | June 27, 2006 3:06 PM
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I do all the above now. I however, was hoping to read how to keep my memory sharp. But I guess I have to buy a white paper to find that out.
Posted by: AHurvitz | May 15, 2006 3:46 PM