Up to two-thirds of people age 50 and older have a more difficult time remembering names, appointments and other details in life, according to the Harvard Medical School. Most of the time, these small memory lapses are not signs of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, but instead are a normal part of aging. However, you do have some control in improving your memory power.
Brain Exercises
Just as physical activity can help you get your body in shape, mental exercises can help you shape up your brain. Challenge your mind with something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand to activate connections that are not often used on the non-dominant side of your brain. Other brain workouts include doing crossword puzzles, reading a section of the newspaper you normally skip and taking alternate routes when you are driving.
Physical Activity
Physical activity increases blood flow and oxygen to your entire body, including your brain, which may help keep your memory sharp. Exercise can also improve the benefits of chemicals in the brain and protect brain cells, as well as reduce the risk of conditions that lead to memory loss, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Try to get at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity every day, suggests the Mayo Clinic.
Nutrition
Eating a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and "healthy" fats can stimulate brain function and help improve your memory, writes Ellen Jaffe-Gill and her colleagues at HelpGuide.org. B vitamins protect neurons by breaking down an amino acid that is toxic to nerve cells; antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta carotene fight free radicals which can damage cells; and omega-3 fatty acids are concentrated in the brain and are linked to cognitive function.
Social Interaction
Socializing and talking to people on a regular basis can help prevent depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. Find opportunities to be with your family, friends, or co-workers, whether it is to go out to eat, see a movie, or go to an event together. Even talking on the phone can help lift your mood.
Organization
If your home or office is cluttered, you are more likely to forget things. Write down tasks and appointments in a notebook or calendar. Also, check off items on your to-do list as you complete them and choose one location to place your wallet, keys and other important items so you don't forget where they are.
