Ways to Boost Your Memory

Memory loss is not an expected part of aging. However, as we get older it sometimes seems harder to remember everyday details. Here are some tips, for memory stimulation and some help understanding what is normal and what might not be.
Stimulating your memory
1. Help yourself to remember routine things by using lists, a day timer, or try an online calendar. Google offers a free online calendar that will alert you when things are due. Make written shopping lists short and sweet. Put the list in your purse or pocket- so you won’t forget it!
2. Avoid multi-tasking if something else important is going on. In 2006, researchers from the University of California reported that people who learn something new while multitasking are less able to recall what they've learned later on. According to the study, multitasking didn't harm memory during the learning but appeared to make it more difficult to retrieve what was learned later.
3. According to an eHow article “How to Remember Names”, there are several tricks that can help you avoid an embarrassing social situation. When you meet someone new, repeat his name to yourself and often during conversation. Use word association if necessary. Repetition and practice will pay off.
4. When trying to remember a phone number or other long set of numbers, divide the number into threes. If you write the number down, separate it as a phone number, area code, prefix, number. Memory experts say that groups of three are easier to recall.
5. If you are facing the family reunion or your spouse’s company picnic, look at some pictures of a similar group and attach a picture to a name.
6. Try learning a new card game or a new skill. Normal memory capacity is enhanced when you keep your mind active.
Serious Memory Loss
While it may be hard to remember names, or find your car keys, these are usually signs of normal forgetfulness, not serious memory problems. Here is one example that might help you understand the difference between so-called normal memory loss and serious or pathological memory loss.
You run out of bread and go to the grocery store to buy more.
Once at home again, you remember you forgot to buy bread.
This is normal.
However, if you go to the store and can’t remember the purpose for going while there or afterward, the lapse may not be normal. Other signs of serious memory loss may include getting lost in places that should be familiar, forgetting to bathe or groom yourself, or repeatedly forgetting the day, time, or place. If you experience these symptoms on a regular basis, you should check with your doctor. Medical treatments are available for serious memory loss and are most successful if treated early.