Some Memory Activities For Seniors

By Paul Edwards


A significant number of seniors struggle with some degree of memory loss. This problem tends to get worse as they get older mainly due to the atrophy (shrinkage) of their brain tissue. In most cases, it is short term rather than long term memory that is affected. This does pose a major challenge considering that a lot of vital information is protected by passwords and PINs. To keep this problem in check, there are a number of Memory activities for seniors to consider.

Solving puzzles is a time tested solution for keeping amnesia at bay. They are effective in all age groups including seniors. Crossword puzzles involving words or numbers are particularly useful. Many of these exercises are quite simple and do not require intelligent solutions. Rather they are based in simple logic. Engaging in such exercises on a daily basis has tremendous long term benefits.

Sensory stimulation is a solution that proposes the regular use of all the senses. Proponents argue that this helps in maintaining neural connections and indeed helps with recall. The sense of hearing, for instance, can be engaged by regularly listening to beautiful music. The gustatory sense calls for one to taste something delicious while vision also requires that one indulges their eyes on colourful objects and events.

There are a number of board games that can serve the same purpose and even provide additional benefits. The most common among them are chess and checkers (or draughts). The nature of these games are such that one needs to recall some information and anticipate the move likely to be made by their opponent. It is for this reason that such games also help with cognition.

Reading is another important habit than seniors should be encouraged to maintain. It is quite useful in maintaining something known as word recall. Content that may be read is quite wide and is largely dependent on the preference of the reader. Reading historical facts is most beneficial as it helps bring back memories at risk of being forgotten.

Learning on a continuous basis is healthy for the brain. Seniors should make sure that they expose themselves to new knowledge and skills. Learning something new is both exciting and challenging. One has to actively remember new information which is important in keeping the memory intact. Some of the new skills will include, for example, learning new musical instruments, learning new recipes and even new languages.

A healthy body is a healthy mind. Regularly exercising is beneficial to all cells in the body including the neurons. There is a need to exercise regularly. Exercise helps get rid of stress and improves blood flow to the brain. The result is a general improvement of brain function. Exercises such as brisk walking jogging and cycling are considered effective. Regular exercise should be accompanied by a well balanced diet.

Memory loss is a common problem among many seniors. The severity does vary from one individual to another and the problem may be compounded by neurological conditions such as Alzheimer disease. Remaining active is the secret to delaying amnesia in old age. The activities mentioned here are just but a few suggestions on what one can do.




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