As you get older, it can be hard not to worry if you start to forget things. It’s easy to jump to conclusions and begin to worry if your forgetfulness is a sign of dementia. General forgetfulness is normal, but there are ways to strengthen your memory.
5 Ways to Strengthen Your Memory
Fear and anxiety can make it harder to remember because they stress your brain out. These ways to strengthen your memory may be awkward at first but will get easier over time.
1. Practice Active Attention
What does this mean? Basically, it’s paying attention with a purpose. Instead of just focusing on something, like reading, for example, think about how it makes you feel, does it raise questions for you, what stands out?
Don’t start thinking about what you are going to do next.
2. Allow No Distractions When Learning Something New
Remember what it was like when you were in school? There were little to no distractions allowed so that you can focus on learning.
Take that idea with you today. When you are learning something new, turn off your phone, don’t have the TV on, and keep your area clean. Politely tell people to leave you alone while you are working.
Also, take breaks every ten minutes or so to give your brain a break.
3. Be Organized with Storage
If you are constantly losing items, then maybe it’s time to get organized. Keep things in specific places, like putting keys in a bowl or on a hook.
Use labels for boxes that way you can take a quick glance and find what you are looking for.
This way you can retrace your steps with ease.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Repeat Info Outloud
This may seem embarrassing, but it can help. Repeat the info to yourself once or twice after hearing it. Then do it again thirty minutes or an hour later.
Saying it out loud sharpens your focus with the material.
5. Write Things Down
Make flash cards, take notes, write a summary or a list of key points. Writing is another way to repeat information and makes it easier to remember. Plus, you have something you can look at later.
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