7 Ways Seniors Boost Memory in Miami

Posted by Scott Cantin in elderly care, Senior Health | 0 comments

Loss of memory is a common complaint among seniors. While everybody forgets things occasionally, memory loss accelerates when people age, often causing frustration and confusion. If you’re wondering how to improve memory retention and recall, there are no guarantees and sure ways to prevent dementia and forgetfulness from occurring, but there are easy ways for seniors to strengthen their memory recall. 

At Advancare, we have a team of dedicated in-home senior caregivers serving the entire Miami-Dade area. When spending time with your senior loved ones, we make sure to engage them with these memory-boosting exercises, though most of them can also be completed on their own. Here is how to improve memory and concentration. 

#1 Get Enough Sleep

There is a strong relationship between the amount of sleep that a person gets and their memory recall. Sleep triggers changes in the brain that solidify memories, and it also strengthens connections between brain cells and helps in transferring memories from short-term to long-term memory. So how much sleep should a senior get each night to boost memory? It depends on the person, but six to nine hours should be adequate. 

#2 Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet can be as critical for your brain as it is for your heart. There is evidence that suggests that foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as beer or steak, dairy, and fried foods, cause high levels of LDL cholesterol. These unhealthy, artery-clogging foods can cause damage to the brain and increase the risk of memory loss and stroke. 

#3 Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity increases blood flow to your whole body, including your brain, which can help keep your memory boosted. According to a study conducted by the Center for Brain Health at the University of Texas at Dallas, seniors who engaged in physical activities such as using a stationary bike or treadmill for only one hour three times per week for 12 weeks resulted in higher resting blood flow to the brain. Improvements in mental health were seen in as few as six weeks afterward. 

#4 Stay Mentally Active

Learning new skills and keeping your brain active can play a major role in improving cognitive function and memory. Consider engaging in mental activities such as playing an instrument, learning a new hobby, or performing mental exercises. Keeping your senior’s mind active with new challenges and activities can keep their memory strong. 

#5 Socialize Regularly

Regular social interaction helps to ward off depression and stress, both of which are negative factors that can contribute to memory loss. Take advantage of opportunities that allow your senior to meet up with friends and family members. Consider helping them join a social club with their peers. 

#6 Role of Toxins

Sometimes toxins such as lead, mercury, and aluminum can contribute to memory loss and dementia. If your senior has been exposed to such toxins, they may be at a higher risk for memory loss. 

#7 Recall and Retention

A large part of boosting memory is working on recall and retention of information. This is something that the staff at Advancare helps out with when they are completing memory-boosting exercises. 

Need a Caregiver to Help You Reach Your Goals for Improving Memory and Retention?

One of the many services performed by the caregivers at Advancare is caring companionship. Having a caregiver visit who can provide socialization and boost mental well-being can play a positive role in boosting memory in seniors.  

To learn more, contact us at 305-441-9794.