Memory is our ability to recall ideas, sensations, and feelings. There are generally different classifications of it, namely, sensory (a very brief recollection of what has just been seen or heard), short term (recalling recent events such as what you had for breakfast this morning) and long term (reminiscence of events that happened week, months, or years ago such as your first kiss or your wedding day). Sensory and short-term memories have the potential to become long-term ones based on their intensity and repetition.

Our long-term thoughts are often more cherished the more we age, as we look back on the most important moments in our lives. However, a short-term thought or idea is important in helping us remember things like where we left our glasses or what we stopped at the grocery store to pick-up. However, many people notice that they are no longer able to remember things that were once so clear.

This may lead to trouble remembering simple things like the name of an old friend or the date of a special occasion. Many individuals assume such a loss as a normal part of aging; in fact, more than two-thirds of Americans report some form of decline in thinking with age.

Some major causes of memory loss are:

• Medications – Some anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, some medications used to treat schizophrenia and sleeping pills can affect the reception and transmission of information.

• Alcohol Abuse and drugs – Heavy alcohol use and certain drugs can change chemicals in the brain that affect memory.

• Depression and Anxiety – These disorders disrupt the overall daily functioning. Moreover, it is more difficult to retain information when you are depressed.

• Hypothyroidism – The inadequate functioning of the thyroid gland can slow the intellectual functions and causes memory disorders

• Brain lesions – The stroke and brain tumors can damage the neurons responsible for intellectual functions.

• Malnutrition or Vitamin deficiencies – Deficiencies of B vitamins can affect memory. Most of the times, the problem is solved once you increase your B complex intake.

• Sleep deprivation – can adversely affect brain function and cause, eventually, memory loss

• Certain diseases – Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Parkinson’s Disease, Encephalitis and Meningitis, Wilson’s disease , Lewy body disease, Pick Disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, etc. may cause memory dysfunction.

Useful practical advice

Small Techniques – Take some good habits: always put your keys in the same place; learn to note what you do not want to forget; speak loudly to yourself, etc.
Learning to relax – The stress and daily concerns can affect your memory. Book yourself time to relax each day.

Keep the brain fit – Many recent studies show that a sustained intellectual activity throughout lifetime may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease. Read a lot, do crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble … short, feed your brain.

Exercise regularly – Some research suggests that physical activity can also stimulate memory. Adopt an activity (biking, swimming, walking, etc.) and practice it at least three times a week for 20 minutes each time.

Looking for support- Memory impairment can be a sign of Alzheimer disease; do not hesitate to contact the Alzheimer Society in your area. You’ll find support and advice.

Nutrition for your memory – many studies confirm that vitamins B12, folic acid and anti-oxidant are effective for treating memory loss. Increase them in your daily diet.

The easiest way is follow the memory improvement guide. Download the memory improvement guide.