Tips to ease your forgetfulness
Help keep your mind in top shape as you age with these expert strategies.
Lots of things change as we age, including our brains. But not all changes are signs of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. If you forget things, then remember them later (such as words, appointments, names, and the date), that’s normal. If you’re worried, talk to your doctor. Conditions like depression and sleep apnea are treatable conditions that can have symptoms that are similar to dementia.
Don’t forget to give your brain a daily mental workout with crosswords and jumbles, in addition to these memory boosters:
- Write to-dos. Studies show just seeing the note on paper may be enough to jog your memory.
- Do to-dos in pairs. Pair a task you easily forget with something you never forget, like brushing your teeth.
- Stick to a schedule. Do tasks in the same order. You’ll get used to “what comes next” and be less likely to skip a step.
- Take lots of photos. One study found that people remember things better if they snap photos along the way.
- Use some props. Need to get gas? Create a little dashboard sign to remind you.
To learn the 10 specific signs of Alzheimer’s disease, visit Alz.org.
3 apps to train your brain
Boost mental strength with these free tools for your Android or IOS device:
Peak: The problem solver. Developed by neuroscientists, Peak has more than 45 mental exercises to stretch your mental muscles. The app allows you to compete against your friends, keep track of your progress over time, and compare stats with other users in your age range and occupation.
Eidetic: The memory enhancer. Eidetic uses a technique called spaced repetition to help you memorize important phone numbers, or even just interesting words and facts. You enter the information you want to remember and the app sends you periodic notifications to help commit the information to your long-term memory.
Elevate: The skill tester. Elevate has more than 40 games designed to test memory, oral skills, focus, math, and comprehension. The exercises are only a couple of minutes long so you can keep playing throughout the day. The app provides detailed performance tracking, and you can also compare your scores with friends.
Try this brain teaser
Can you crack the emoji-code below? Hint: It’s a centuries-old piece of health advice.
Answer to the picture puzzler:
