How to Help Your Loved One Strengthen Their Memory

Elder Care in Plainsboro NJ

In many ways your elderly loved one’s memory is like a muscle. If it is not exercised regularly, it can become weaker. Similarly, if it is exercised frequently, it can become very strong. Many elderly adults and their caregivers are concerned about memory loss and preventing/slowing the progression of cognitive decline, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease. One way for your loved one to prevent these conditions or slow their progression is to give their brain a “workout” on a regular basis. Read on for some simple and easy ways your loved one can strengthen their memory and consider incorporating these activities into their daily routine.

Aerobic Exercise

Yes, physical exercise can help to strengthen the brain, as well. In addition to the numerous health benefits of physical exercise, its impact on memory health can be a very important one for your elderly loved one. Aerobic exercise promotes a healthy heart which can in turn provide many health benefits for the brain. Exercises that require hand-eye coordination or complex movements can be particularly beneficial.

Adequate Sleep

Your loved one’s brain needs its rest in order to function best. Without adequate sleep, memory health can suffer. Be sure that your loved one gets between 7.5 and 9 hours of sleep each night. If your loved one has difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, consider encouraging them to cut back on caffeine, avoid screen time an hour before bed, and stay on a regular sleep schedule.

Social Interaction

Social interaction is important for elderly adults for many reasons. It can help them to fight off loneliness, isolation, and boredom, but it can also help them to strengthen their brain and memory. Encourage your loved one to participate in social activities such as joining a group or club, meeting up with friends, or even spending time with a pet. These activities all have benefits for the brain!

Reduce Stress

Chronic stress can have a negative effect on memory health as well as on physical health. To have great quality of life and a strong memory, encourage your loved one to find ways to reduce the stress in their life. Some elderly adults may benefit from stress-relieving techniques such as meditation, tai chi, yoga, or deep breathing. Others may find calm in doing activities such as journaling, painting, walking, coloring, or knitting.

Source: http://www.helpguide.org/articles/memory/how-to-improve-your-memory.htm

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Plainsboro, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care of New Brunswick today. Call (732) 607-8870.