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 protein foods
- Limit foods with high saturated fat and cholesterol, such as butter, shortening, lard and fatty cuts of meat
- Cut down on refined sugars, or switch them out for healthier options like fruit or juice-sweetened baked goods
- Limit foods with high sodium and use less salt, and use spices or herbs to season food instead
- Stay hydrated by drinking small cups of water or other liquids throughout the day
Exercise
- Regular exercise increases energy levels, reduces apathy and improves the overall sense of well-being
- Since lack of motivation can be significant, a personal trainer may be used to provide assistance
- 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, Lumosity, reading but only if you discuss what you read with someone else (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 caregiver 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