If you have noticed any recent lapse of memory, stop now. First of all, relax. If possible, take a vacation, travel, and change your routine. Stress is the main cause of this problem.
If after about 15 days the problem persists, contact a specialized medical center for an assessment. Now, if other people noticed this lapse in you, go ahead and make an appointment right away.
Human memory is influenced by internal and external factors that can cause interference on the information in storage or in the pursuit of that previously stored. Among the internal factors are sleep deprivation, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles, aspects of cognition related to aging, personality types, inattention and a lack of motivation.
As external factors, use of certain drugs, smoking, alcohol abuse, disorganization of information stored and excessive use of external strategies – i.e. computer, calculator, two secretaries who organize one’s life.
Statistics show that 10–15 percent of those between ages 46-60 can demonstrate a significant decline of cognition. This number increases dramatically after age 75. People with greater control of their lives, and who practice physical and intellectual activities are more likely to be happier and in better health; thus, the importance of practicing healthy habits and conducting annual check-ups according to age and risk factors. Memory disorders and other cognitive skills may not be inevitable or irreversible.
People with greater control of their lives, and who practice physical and intellectual activities are more likely to be happier and in better health; thus, the importance of practicing healthy habits and conducting annual check-ups according to age and risk factors.
Therefore, guided by Dr. Rochele Paz Fonseca, a scientist and leading authority on the subject, we developed an innovative method to treat memory. The approach, unprecedented in Brazil, is made by a multidisciplinary team and comprises from a battery of comprehensive neuropsychological tests of memory, specific geriatric assessment, psycho-educational lectures and memory workshops, memory training, and even space exercises to improve cognitive functions.
From a correct diagnosis, it is possible to outline appropriate treatment guidelines, both on an emotional level as in the practitioner. Prevention is the best pro-health action, being essential to emphasize that exercise the memory is always key.
In conclusion, I leave simple and important suggestions for memory maintenance, such as doing regular exercise, changing automatic routines, scheduling appointments in writing – in a diary or on a notepad, and in a visible place — keeping glasses and braces or other frequently used objects always in the same place, reading and then summarizing what had been read, doing crosswords puzzles, playing intelligent games, and having restful sleep.
Practice meditation regularly because these techniques can improve attention and, thus, the memory. Avoid self-medication, especially drugs that act on the central nervous system.
To retain content, you need attention, repetition and motivation in order to assimilate what is intended. Practice meditation regularly because these techniques can improve attention and, thus, the memory. Avoid self-medication, especially drugs that act on the central nervous system. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Maintain adequate blood levels of B vitamins and vitamin D.
And, above all, take care of your emotions. For depression, stress and anxiety generate memory losses. So, remember what we talked about at the beginning of our conversation. Relax. Do not generate stress about your memory problems. And if they persist, go to a specialized medical center for an assessment. They can be reversible.
About the Author
Dr. Mariela Silveira serves on the board of directors for the Kurotel Medical Center for Longevity and Spa. One of the oldest, most successful medical destination spa in South America, Kurotel has achieving top spa and travel awards. Dr. Silveira holds advanced degrees in medicine, medical acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy and nutrology. She is an expert on the latest innovations in medical and wellness care.
She is the founder of the NGO Mente Viva (Live Mind), which counts on volunteer health professionals to promote the culture of peace in the schools of Brazil.
