8 Ways to Fight Memory Loss

Memory loss doesn’t have to be inevitable as we age. While 40 percent of seniors will experience some type of memory decline, fortunately it’s something we can fight.

The Mayo Clinic has a list of eight things we can do to sharpen our brain.

1. Take care of any chronic conditions you have, and follow your doctor’s advice.
2. Stay mentally active. Read a portion of the newspaper you usually don’t see. Invest in a puzzle book. Volunteer in the community. (Offering to shelve books at the library can help with both mental and physical fitness.) Learn to play a new musical instrument. Ask the senior center to invest in one of the memory improvement/brain fitness computer programs, and use it often. (Studies have shown they work!) Dial the phone with your opposite hand. Learn new games or activities.
3. Stay physically active. Walking a total of 2 1/2 hours a week will help keep the blood flowing to the brain.
4. Get organized. Declutter your home. Make lists of things you need to do, and always keep the list in the same place. Keep your keys and other essentials in one location too.
5. Socialize. Look for opportunities to attend events with friends. You’ll help to fight depression and stress at the same time.
6. Eat a healthy diet. Vegetables, whole grains, fruits and low-fat proteins — as well as plenty of water — can help your brain function at its peak.
7. Concentrate on what you’re doing. You’ll remember information better if it’s the only thing you’re thinking about.
8. Get plenty of sleep, or at least enough naps. Even the brain needs to rest!

Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@gmail.com.

(c) 2013 King Features Synd., Inc.

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