Being a little forgetful is common as we age. By the time we hit our mid-30s, it’s normal for our memories to begin to fade and continue to do so as the years pass. The human brain works slower in old age because more information is stored over time.
A recent study revealed when a computer is downloaded with the words and learning a person may encounter in a lifetime, its performance slowed, similar to an adult’s performance on cognitive tests. The program slowed because the database grew, taking longer to search the database, not because its ability to process had declined. When a computer was programmed to simulate the performance of young adults, the results were faster because of the smaller database.
Experts say as we grow older we can expect the following memory lapses:
- Forgetting names of people we see infrequently, or the name of someone we are familiar with when we see them in unfamiliar surroundings.
- Forgetting details of a recent conversation.
- Repeating a story to the same person more than once in a week.
- Phone numbers, passwords, postal codes, etc. are not as easy to memorize.
- Forgetting one item (among several) on a trip to the store.
- Entering a room and forgetting why or what you were looking for.
As we age, many of us become busier and have more to remember. Getting organized can help.
Useful memory aids include:
- Make notes. Keep a list of daily tasks that need to be done. Jot down reminders in a journal or an appointment book.
- Don’t procrastinate. Do things as soon as possible, so they are not forgotten.
- Pay attention when others speak. Listen carefully to remember their name or details of a story.
- Repeat what you want to remember several times in your mind, and you’ll likely remember it.
- Set an alert on your cell phone, if you’re afraid of forgetting to attend a meeting or picking up your granddaughter from dance class.
Severe memory problems, however, can be a warning of more serious illnesses such as Alzheimer’s. Be concerned if you forget names of close family members; forget more than one conversation daily; repeat a story to the same person within a few hours; or completely forget something you’ve just done, like a trip to the grocery store.
To keep you sharp, consider memory games. If you have a smartphone, memory game apps can often be downloaded for free. If you prefer analog activities, try brain games, learning a new skill, or mnemonic devices like visualization, acronyms or rhymes.
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Eve Lees has been active in the health & fitness industry since 1979. Currently, she is a Freelance Health Writer for several publication and speaks to business and private groups on various health topics.