Tips to Maintain Memory

Eat Regular, Nutritious Meals

• Provide a balanced diet with a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins
• Limit foods with high saturated fat and cholesterol, such as butter, fried foods, and fatty cuts of meat
• Cut down on refined sugars
• Limit foods with high sodium and use less salt, substituting spices or herbs to season food instead
• Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption

Exercise

• Regular exercise increases energy levels, reduces apathy and improves overall sense of well-being
• Examples: walking, tai-chi, swimming, biking

Stay Mentally and Socially Active

• Engage your brain to maintain function
• Examples of mental exercise: card games, word games, Sudoku, board games, reading (note: TV is not considered mental activity)
• Examples of social exercise: talk with friends or family several times a week, take a course in something of interest to you, participate in support groups or daycare

Use Tips to Help You Remember

• Keep lists
• Follow a routine
• Make associations in your mind
• Keep a detailed calendar
• Repeat names when you meet new people
• Jog your memory by running through the ABCs in your head