A few tips to improve your memory
Can't find your car keys? Forget your grocery list? Forget your doctor’s appointment? You're not alone. Everyone forgets things from time to time. As you get older, this may happen more often. Still, memory loss is nothing to take lightly.
L.A. Care wants its members to live a healthy lifestyle, stay informed of plan benefits and take an active role in their care. These simple steps can help keep your brain sharp.
1. Get physically active during the day!
Exercise increases blood flow to your whole body, including your brain and can help prevent problems that can lead to memory loss, such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Stroke
It is important that you get and stay active.
With SilverSneakers®, your fitness benefit from L.A. Care Medicare Plus you have access to fitness and lifestyle articles. You also have access to SilverSneakers instructors at the gym and through virtual classes you can take at home to help you with exercises. If you haven’t signed up already, get started at SilverSneakers.com/StartHere.
Another option is a 30-minute daily walk. Walking is one of the best things you can do for your body, including your brain. If you don't have time, try to squeeze in a few 10-minute walks throughout the day.
Ask your health care provider about whether or how you can safely become active or increase your physical activity.
2. Stay mentally active
Just as physical activity helps keep your body in shape, mental exercise is good for you.
Do crossword puzzles. Play cards, join a book club. Any mentally challenging activity will help keep your mind sharp.
3. Stay Social
Being social can help with depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. Stay connected with family, friends, and your community — especially if you live alone.
5. Sleep well
Sleep plays an important role in helping you recall memories down the road. Make getting enough sleep a priority. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep a day.
Try these tips to get better sleep:
- Avoid big meals before bed.
- Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning.
- Don't drink caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime.
- Avoid smoking or other forms of nicotine.
6. Eat healthy
A healthy diet might be as good for your brain as it is for your heart.
- Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose low-fat protein foods, such as fish, beans and skinless poultry.
Drink fluids throughout the day. You may feel less thirsty as you get older, but your body needs fluids to stay healthy and keep you regular. If you have a bladder control problem, check with your doctor about what, how much, and when to drink liquids.