Tips for keeping your memory sharp
As
yet, there is no prevention or cure for dementia. However,
here are a few tips for keeping your brain fit and memory
sharp:
Avoid harmful substances
Excessive drinking and drug abuse
damages brain cells
Challenge yourself
Reading widely, keeping mentally active and learning new
skills strengthens brain connections and promotes new ones
Trust yourself more
If people feel they have control over their
lives, their brain chemistry actually improves
Relax
Tension may prolong a memory loss
Make sure you get
regular and adequate sleep
Eat a well
balanced diet
Pay attention
Concentrate on what you want to remember
Minimise and
resist distractions
Use a notepad
...and carry a calendar. This may not keep your memory
sharp, but does compensate for any memory lapses
Take your time
Organise
belongings.
Use a special place for
unforgettables such as car keys and glasses
Repeat names
...of new acquaintances in conversation
Normal memory loss & that of a person with dementia
|
Events |
May forget part or all of an
event |
Memory may sometimes be vague |
|
Words or names
for things or objects |
Progressively forgets |
Sometimes may forget.
Words or names are on
the 'tip of the tongue' |
|
Written and verbal
directions |
Increasingly unable to
follow |
Able to follow |
|
Stories on TV, in
movies or books |
Progressively loses
ability to follow |
Able to follow |
|
Stored knowledge |
Over time loses
known information such as historical or
political information |
Although recall may
be slower, information is essentially retained |
|
Everyday skills such
as dressing and cooking |
Progressively loses capacity to
perform tasks |
Retains ability,
unless physically impaired |
Further information - phone the National Dementia Helpline
on 1800 100 500 (freecall) or visit
www.alzheimers.org.au
| 
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