Tune up your memory 

Why is it that some folks can instantly recall names and phone numbers, while others of us feel forever in need of strings affixed to our fingers?  

From birth on, memories vary. Then stress, aging and disease come along, causing "normal" memory loss.  Normal or not, this is zero fun!

The good news is, most of us remain both alert and able as we age. It just may take us longer to remember things.  There are also things we can do to prevent memory loss and improve retention. 

Here are some ideas to jumpstart your thinking.

Exercise Regularly

Keep your mind sharp by exercising your body.  We all know that exercise is good for us.  In particular, studies show that regular exercise improves memory retention. 

Fortunately, exercise doesn't have to be strenuous.  Even mild aerobic exercise, such as walking for 20 minutes at least three times a week, stimulates blood flow and delivery of essential oxygen to the brain. 

Another advantage of physical activity is that it encourages restorative sleep, giving your brain the rest it needs to concentrate and remember.  

So, for your mind's sake, get (or stay) active.

NOTE: Always check with your doctor  before beginning a new exercise program.

Establish Routines

Why are routines so helpful?  They have a cascade effect.  When one task is performed, it triggers a series of memories that recall the other things that need doing.  A bedtime routine, for instance, might include general hygiene tasks (like brushing your teeth), taking medications and reading for 15 minutes.  Begin one activity and the rest follow naturally.

Turn the power of routines to your advantage.

Ever "lose" your car in the parking lot?  Park in the same basic location at the store on each visit - problem solved.  Similarly, make it a habit to always return items like car keys and eyeglasses to the same place.  No more desperate hunts for these essentials!

Finally, make a habit of recording to-do's and multi-step tasks on paper or tape. Wipe-off boards, Post-it notes and calendars free your mind of clutter.  And a small notebook or voice recorder tucked in a pocket can capture thoughts and reminders before they escape.

Organize Personal Space

Keep in mind the old adage "a place for everything and everything in its place."  By minimizing physical clutter, you avoid hours wasted trying to unearth missing items.

Use readily available office and closet organizers throughout the house. When you can't see into a container or drawer, label it with a meaningful phrase or list, so you know the basic contents without having to search through it every time you're looking for something.

Use Memory Aids

Memory aids can make life simpler and you, more independent.  Some offer auditory cues like buzzers, music or taped messages. Others serve as visual reminders.  Here are just a few possibilities:

Medication Dispensers - To be effective, medications must be taken on time.  Timed pill containers, from the straightforward VitaCarry to the feature-rich Automated Medication Dispenser, keep you safe and on schedule. 

Photo Phone - No need wracking your brain to recall important phone numbers.  This handy telephone uses photographs to identify pre-programmed telephone numbers.  Just press the appropriate photo to call.

Voice Cue - Customize your reminders.  Record up to five messages and set the clock to play them back at the appropriate time.  Now you can hear a precise reminder in your own words.  Or let grandkids record for you...makes remembering much more fun! 

Keychain Recorder - Portable, easy to find and to use.  This small, inexpensive recorder lets you capture thoughts as you go.  Note where you parked the car or what you need to get at the supermarket.

Loud Timers and Clocks - Need to recall appointments or tasks, like switching the laundry from the washer to the dryer?  These attention getters alert you that something needs doing.  Get the features you need with a wearable timer, a bold big digit timer, a talking timer, one that's extra extra loud, or a 4-memory timer that auto-repeats.

Vibrating Timers - Sometimes you want a reminder that won't disturb those around you.  Vibrating wristwatches like the VibraLite3 and pocket clocks like the Invisible Timer get your attention quietly. 

TIP: Looking to help someone struggling with impaired memory?  This can be a sensitive issue.  If you can identify a specific area that needs memory support, why not offer an aid as a gift?   Many of today's memory tools are fun gadgets, suitable for anyone regardless of age or issues.