Unfortunately, old age is not always a joy, although they say that youth is not life. It is so arranged that the more a person ages, the worse his memory becomes (including, by the way, because he already works less - there is less strength, and more savings). Nevertheless, it is quite possible (and necessary) to combat such a phenomenon. Special games to improve the memory of older people will help prevent a situation where mental activity deteriorates to a critical level.
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What causes memory loss in older people?
As a rule, absent-mindedness, poor sleep, deterioration of memory and attention occur due to asthenic syndrome. Of course, age-related changes also have an impact on brain activity. Many people believe that it is impossible to improve memory performance in old age, however, this is not true. Many elderly people, who are well over 70-80 years old, manage to keep their minds clear and their memory strong.
Read the material on the topic: Sleep disturbance in older people
To understand how memory can be improved, it is necessary to understand the reasons that cause its deterioration. Let's list them:
- age-related changes;
- changes in brain vessels, tissues, organs;
- loss of vascular elasticity;
- reduction of the lumen between the walls of the vessels;
- the presence of minor hemorrhages in the brain;
- various infections;
- overwork, stress, depression;
- impaired metabolism;
- hormonal disbalance;
- lack of vitamins, minerals;
- malignant neoplasm;
- neurosis;
- changes in the functioning of one of the internal organs;
- dysbacteriosis;
- diseases that cause memory impairment: endemic goiter, hypothyroidism, acromegaly, etc.;
- spending long periods of time watching TV;
- progressive dementia.
Most of the above reasons need to be treated under the supervision of a doctor. However, you can improve memory and concentration with the help of folk remedies, which, as a rule, produce a positive effect.
What are these supplements and why should you take them?
As the author of the book says, food supplements are micronutrients that can only be taken in very small doses.
Their weight is measured in micrograms (symbol μg) - one millionth of a gram. That is, if the dose is 1000 mcg, then it is only 0.001 grams. One thousand micrograms is equal to one thousandth of a gram! In milligrams (symbol mg) - one thousandth of a gram. That is, if the dose is 100 mg, then it is 0.1 grams. One tenth of a gram.
Supplements are taken to obtain substances necessary for brain function that are not sufficient in our daily food. Or, which are quickly consumed by our body due to an unfavorable external environment - pollution, lack of sun, etc.
When some substances are not enough, then, gradually, the brain begins to work worse; some irreversible changes may occur (so to speak, old age comes and we begin to grow vegetables). So to prevent this we take these supplements.
What memory enhancing drugs can older people take?
Glycine
This remedy has been known since Soviet times. It is used to improve memory in elderly people who suffer from amnesia and sclerosis. The drug improves and regulates metabolism, increases performance, relieves stress, anxiety, and eliminates insomnia.
Read material on the topic: Vitamins for older people
Glycine can also be prescribed to a person at a young age if he has suffered an injury, brain contusion, or concussion. If you suffer from nervous exhaustion and emotional fatigue, then this drug will help get rid of these unpleasant phenomena. Glycine has no contraindications for use, however, individual intolerance to one of the components in its composition is possible. Drugs that improve brain function and memory, such as glycine, in rare cases cause an allergic reaction, drowsiness and a feeling of “tinnitus”.
Intellan
Intellan stimulates brain activity. It is prescribed for severe stress, depression, problems with concentration and attention. The drug helps improve memory in older people, but is sometimes prescribed to children if their development is slow. By the way, the medicine should not be taken at night due to the risk of insomnia.
Piracetam and phenotropil
The drugs piracetam and phenotropil, which improve blood circulation and activate metabolic processes, help older people improve their memory. Piracetam is used not only to improve memory. It is prescribed for diseases of the nervous system, atherosclerosis, and injuries. It can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor, as it is possible that allergic reactions and exacerbations of heart disease may occur. The medicine is available in ampoules, capsules, granules, and tablets.
Phenotropil produces a psychostimulating effect. It helps improve memory and concentration, and should be taken in the first half of the day. Like other medications that improve memory, phenotropil can cause side effects, for example, high blood pressure and insomnia.
Tanakan and phenibut
Tanakan and Phenibut are prescribed to adults if they need to improve their memory. Tanakan is prescribed for encephalopathy and mental impairment. Phenibut is recommended if the patient is worried about anxiety and irritability. Like other pills that improve memory, they can cause side effects, for example, dizziness, itching, etc. These medications are contraindicated for gastritis, ulcers, and circulatory problems.
What to do when memory deteriorates
Many experts talk about metabolic disorders, lack of nicotinic and folic acid, as well as other B vitamins. This cause of memory impairment is the most common, and it is related to nutrition. Most working people eat “as they have to” - not according to the principle of usefulness, but according to a different principle - so that it is fast, satisfying and tasty.
We will not describe the harm from fast food now - a lot has been said about this, but let us remind you which products should be present in the diet at all times. Fortunately, there are many such products, and it is possible to ensure normal functioning of brain cells without problems - of course, you will have to give up many bad habits. But health is more important, isn't it?
For example, regular apples, if eaten regularly, will help get rid of iron deficiency and protect brain cells from the “attacks” of free radicals: the substances contained in apples help the body produce more neurotransmitters necessary for memory restoration, and also prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood. It is known that it is with an excess of cholesterol that deposits and plaques form in the vessels - the blood supply to the brain deteriorates, and memory weakens.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids are something without which the normal activity of brain cells is simply impossible. They are found in fatty sea fish, and you don’t need to buy expensive fish - ordinary herring will do; in virgin vegetable oils, fresh nuts and seeds, leafy vegetables, sprouted wheat. Among leafy vegetables, spinach stands out for its usefulness - it’s a pity that this plant is not very popular in our country. Eating spinach improves brain function and increases the resistance of its blood vessels to damage.
Photo: memory is deteriorating
Carbohydrates are also necessary - not simple ones, which are rich in white bread and sweets, but complex ones, from which the brain will receive nutrients - these are cereals, legumes and grains, vegetables and unsweetened fruits, durum wheat pasta and baked potatoes. I would also like to note such a product as Jerusalem artichoke - it is rich in antioxidants, carbohydrates and B vitamins. If you grow and prepare it correctly, dishes made from it will taste very pleasant.
Hemp products are also interesting - for example, hemp oil and hemp porridge. Now the value of this plant, which has undeservedly become the talk of the town, is gradually being remembered: doctors of the past treated many diseases with cannabis, including epilepsy, migraines, multiple sclerosis, depression and sleep disorders. Hemp oil can be purchased at a pharmacy or health food store and added to dishes just like any other oil.
Among the seasonings, you should choose rosemary and sage: the first reduces brain fatigue and improves memory ability, and the second restores the balance of necessary chemicals in the brain. Aroma oils obtained from these plants will also help.
As for drinks, the simplest choice would be natural green and black tea in reasonable quantities, and ordinary non-carbonated water - mineral, spring, artesian - in general, clean. After all, brain tissue contains about 80% water, and its dehydration leads to the inability to store and reproduce information.
What vitamins that improve memory are suitable for old age?
According to doctors, to improve memory, older people need to take vitamins containing ginseng, which is a plant-derived nootropic. Vision is the most popular of the complexes, which can significantly improve memory. By the way, it is recommended to take it not only for pensioners, but also for those who are constantly engaged in mental work, for example, students and those who seek to improve memory and concentration.
Biotredin can improve memory in older people due to its effect on the nervous system. Such memory enhancing drugs are also prescribed for depression and stress.
Vitrum Memory is an effective remedy for improving memory in older people. Such vitamins that improve memory are prescribed for poor vision, hearing, etc.
How to improve memory for older people using folk remedies
Now you know which drugs improve memory. However, folk remedies allow you to achieve equally lasting results.
Let's look at the basic recipes:
- infusion of pine buds . Pour boiling water (200 ml) into 2 tsp. kidneys, place on low heat and cover with a lid. After 10 minutes, remove from heat, cool and strain. To improve memory and concentration, you need to take 2 tbsp. l. infusion after meals;
- collection . Take motherwort herb (20 g), fragrant woodruff (20 g), blackberry leaf (25 g), mistletoe leaves (15 g), marsh dried grass (15 g), hawthorn fruit (10 g). Mix the ingredients, pour boiling water (1 l) over them. Brew the herbs for half an hour. To improve memory, older people need to drink 3-4 glasses of decoction per day;
- Chinese folk recipe that will help improve memory and concentration. Eat 1 tsp. ground ginger per day;
- garlic tincture . Take a head of garlic, peel it, chop it finely and add oil (200 ml). Close the container and place in a dark place for three weeks. Strain. To improve memory, older people need to take garlic tincture before meals. Add one teaspoon of garlic “potion” to ¼ tsp. lemon juice. The recipe is not suitable for people suffering from infectious diseases or having diseased kidneys or stomach;
- mix carrot and beet juice (4:1) and drink daily;
- Pour water (250 ml) into a container, add 2 tsp. crushed red rowan bark. Boil for 10 minutes, leave for six hours, strain. This remedy helps improve memory and concentration. You need to take it 3 times a day, 1 tbsp.
As you can see, it is possible to improve memory using folk remedies, and recipes tested over generations often give amazing results.
After a certain age, almost all people experience memory deterioration; this process is natural and caused by the aging of the body.
But even now, when medicine and pharmacology are so well developed, doctors still cannot prevent a decrease in the excitability of nerve cells and loss of communication between neurons.
These are the reasons that cause memory problems. Very often the question arises: how to improve memory after 60 years, and whether it can be done at all.
Art therapy for memory training
Art therapy helps to cope with memory disorders associated with stress, depression and overexertion.
Art therapy techniques also help to cope with psychosomatic diseases: phobias, fears, self-doubt, isolation, resentment, aggression towards loved ones.
There are several types of such therapy.
Drawing
Helps to harmonize your internal state and express emotions. Indicated for those people who cannot express feelings and emotions through speech, those suffering from severe depression and acute psychosis.
When drawing, the right hemisphere is involved, which stores non-verbal memory - the memory of things you have ever seen.
Music therapy
Many people have musical compositions associated with some pleasant memories from life.
The principle is that when listening to melodies associated with moments in life, the brain independently reproduces these moments.
Music helps both improve memory after 40 years and relieve emotional stress.
Imagotherapy
This is the reproduction (retelling) of stories and replaying situations from life.
This therapy trains memory by memorizing texts and dialogues, and also helps to gain life experience and behavior patterns in certain situations.
Why does memory deteriorate after 60 years?
Out of 10 elderly people, 8 will complain of partial memory loss. Depending on the individual characteristics of the body, the disease can manifest itself to one degree or another.
Experts say that sclerosis develops gradually, since the human brain must have time to get used to such specific changes. Age-related sclerosis does not cause concern among doctors, since such a reaction after 60 years is normal and is most often caused by certain factors.
They are as follows:
- Decreased blood flow in the brain. Depletion of capillary walls, loss of vascular flexibility, cholesterol deposits - all this negatively affects blood circulation. Constant surges in pressure also have a detrimental effect on brain function.
Progressive multiple sclerosis is a serious obstacle to improving memory after 60 years. Therefore, concern for brain health should be taken even in middle age.
- Strokes and ischemic attacks contribute to rapid memory loss.
- Injury to brain matter. Various injuries, disruption of the integrity of blood vessels, meningitis and other diseases can cause unwanted complications. Even if the pathologies are well tolerated, it will still leave a negative imprint on the brain. Since the body's reserves run out in old age, these diseases can provoke rapid sclerosis in the future.
- Lack of vitamins and minerals (may be caused by improper absorption of incoming products).
- Improper metabolism due to thyroid dysfunction, diabetes and arthritis. With these diseases, the body begins to release toxins that disrupt the functioning of brain cells.
- dysbiosis .
- Dementia, congenital or acquired.
- Alzheimer's disease . It develops after 70 years of age, but in medicine there are known cases of earlier onset. The patient begins to forget everything at a progressive rate. It is impossible to improve memory after 60 or 70 years with this pathology, since an effective treatment method has not yet been developed.
Alzheimer's disease is a serious pathology, the progression of which can only be slowed down, including the use of means and methods of improving memory.
How to improve memory after 60 years: general recommendations
To improve memory or partially stop the progression of pathology, the body needs to provide healthy environmental conditions and avoid overexertion. Only in such an environment will the brain begin to function properly and recover.
Walking in the fresh air to improve memory
Improving memory after 60 years is possible with weekly walking. Since fresh air improves blood circulation and saturates cells with oxygen, such a pastime will have a positive effect on the health of an elderly person and activate neurons in the brain.
The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that you can take walks with a doctor’s permission and correctly calculate the load. As an alternative to walking, you can also bike, rollerblade or boat around the park.
Active and passive rest to improve memory
Pensioners who love an active lifestyle are recommended to go on picnics with friends and garden (without compromising their health).
Spending a long time in nature, fresh air, birds singing - all this will relax the brain and help it rest. Many people mistakenly assume that sitting in front of the TV or relaxing in the apartment will give the same effect, but this is not the case at all.
Foods that improve memory
Improving memory after 60 years can be achieved both through proper nutrition and diet. Thanks to numerous studies, scientists have found that the most useful for combating sclerosis are foods rich in omega-3 acids (most of them are found in fish).
Here are some products that older people should pay attention to:
Recommended Products | Prohibited Products |
1. Whole grains. Nutritionists have long been strongly recommending the introduction of various cereals and bran into the diet. | Alcohol products. Alcoholic drinks negatively affect the body and brain even in youth. In old age, it is generally not recommended to get involved in them. |
2. Nuts. Almost all types of nuts include vitamin E. Tocopherol not only has a positive effect on memory, but also prevents its further deterioration | Abuse of tea and strong coffee |
3. Fatty fish. Both river and sea fish strengthen the nervous system. If you include fish in your diet from a young age, it will prevent the occurrence of many mental diseases | Flour products (gingerbreads, cookies, cakes) |
4. Blueberries. There is no need to rack your brains about how to improve memory after 60 years, because the answer has long been found. Blueberries are an amazing berry; they contain more vitamins and microelements than modern dietary supplements. If you eat 300 g of these berries every week, the work of the brain will be regulated, and the nervous system will work more stably. Another advantage of the product is that blueberries can improve vision in a few months. | Semi-finished products and canned food |
5. Fresh tomatoes, spinach and rosemary, pumpkin seeds - will help support brain function |
Foods that improve memory
For the brain to function properly, it needs oxygen and vitamins C, K, E, group B, Omega-3 and microelements such as phosphorus, selenium, iodine.
How to improve memory after 40 years and its functioning in general is also influenced by nutrition.
These substances contain the following products:
- Milk is a source of vitamin B12, which promotes better absorption of information. You need to drink 2 glasses a day;
- Garlic – accelerates blood circulation, as a result of which the brain receives more oxygen. Eating two to three cloves of garlic every day improves memory;
- Sea kale is a source of iodine, helps maintain a clear mind and in some cases increases IQ;
- Nuts are a source of vitamins B, E, magnesium and fatty amino acids. Develop thinking and stimulate brain function;
- Honey is a source of glucose. The brain feeds only on carbohydrates, that is, glucose. Glucose is also found in dried fruits.
Brain training to improve memory
Not only proper nutrition, but also special training will help change the state of memory. This includes reading books, solving crosswords and puzzles, playing chess and dominoes.
Reading books to improve memory
Reading exciting books will not only help improve your memory, but also increase your concentration. Moderate reading has a positive effect on visual memory , improves motor skills, logical and associative thinking. To quickly achieve a positive result, you can retell the books you read to friends and relatives.
Solving puzzles and crosswords
If you get involved in crosswords and puzzles, it activates your brain processes. Such activities will force a person to analyze information and remember many facts. Solving crossword puzzles can also improve your concentration.
Learning poems by heart to improve memory
To improve your memory, you need to read non-standard and unfamiliar poems. In this case, the brain will begin to analyze the incoming information and will assimilate it differently. In addition, visual memory will be enhanced.
When trying to remember a text, a person will think and reflect to himself, the brain will begin to work more actively. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that the loads should be moderate.
Playing music to improve memory
A few years ago, scientists proved that listening to classical music has a beneficial effect on the right hemisphere of the brain, while increasing concentration.
No matter how surprising it may be, listening to songs with words is an impetus for activating memorization , this is also due to the fact that a person is trying to perceive the lyrics of the song. Also, classical music is an excellent means of calming.
Medications to improve memory
When asked how to improve memory after 60 years, most experts advise taking pills , because this is the method that allows you to achieve improvements in the shortest possible time and at the same time the elderly person does not have to do anything. Modern medications not only adapt the brain to a large flow of information, but also maintain its performance.
Vitamins based on ginseng
, the main active ingredient of which is ginseng, have proven themselves to be very good for strengthening memory Pills with the addition of this plant reduce excitability, reduce nervous and physical stress.
This complex effect prevents atrophy of the part of the brain responsible for memory. The most preferred are vitamins based on Asian or American ginseng. Another advantage of the complex is that it will strengthen the immune system and reduce the likelihood of colds.
Glycine
These sublingual tablets have a very low price and are natural products. However, they are very effective and significantly improve brain performance.
Thanks to their unique composition, they have virtually no contraindications; even pregnant women and infants can take them. The tablet begins to act quickly, immediately after the components are absorbed. Side effects include an allergic reaction and drowsiness , but they occur extremely rarely.
Phenibut
The drug is prescribed only by a doctor and is sold by prescription. The tablets have a pronounced calming effect and are prescribed for anxiety and fear. They also help eliminate insomnia and improve memory.
Before taking it, you must read the instructions and find out all about the side effects. During treatment with the drug, about 40% of patients experience headaches, skin rashes and nausea . In order not to suffer from poor memory in old age, you need to take care of your health from youth.
A healthy lifestyle, a healthy diet and a lack of stress will all help prevent the loss of neural connections in the brain. Of course, we shouldn’t forget about prevention; solving crossword puzzles and reading books will be excellent memory training.
Reading books to improve memory
Improving your memory after 40 years is quite possible, and doing it is not as difficult as it seems. To do this, you need to read as much interesting literature as possible.
When reading, the reader follows the plot idea, developing events, the brain remembers information about the characters, feelings, and fates of the heroes.
But in order for reading to bring greater effect, after reading a chapter or page, you need to reproduce in your memory everything that was discussed in the text you read. This improves memory, intelligence, and also develops vocabulary.
Among other things, reading helps relieve emotional stress and relax.
Useful videos about improving memory after 60 years
In the video selection below you will find valuable additional tips on how to improve your memory after 60 and other important information:
I wish you good health and good mood every day!
Old age is often accompanied by memory deterioration. This occurs due to a general age-related decrease in brain activity, decreased excitability of nerve cells, and disruption of connections between neurons. Unfortunately, aging is an irreversible process, but maintaining clarity of mind until old age is, for the most part, within our power. Let's talk about how to improve memory in old age.
General rules
1. Healthy environmental conditions. It's simple - good memory requires healthy functioning of the brain, and for this, in turn, it is necessary to maintain healthy environmental conditions for work and rest every day.
Namely:
• do NOT work to the point of physical or mental overstrain;
• rest every day, every week, every year;
• walk outside every day.
2. Regular physical activity. For good brain function, you need to have good blood circulation, for which it is important to exercise regularly and keep the muscles of your body in good shape. During exercise, blood circulation will improve, which means the brain will receive more nutrients.
Walking is also beneficial. Anaerobic exercises are also beneficial, including running and strength training. Taking into account your age, it is best to exercise under the supervision of a trainer; he will help you create a training program based on your state of health, age, experience and past illnesses.
3. Proper nutrition. For good brain function you need to eat right. So scientists have found that the daily diet of an elderly person should contain omega-3 fatty acids (there are many of them in fish). Blueberry juice also has a positive effect on the brain. It is this berry that is most saturated with antioxidants. They have a beneficial effect on the body and slow down the degradation process.
4. Glucose intake is also important. Doctors often prescribe special medications that contain high glucose levels to older patients. This component is necessary for the normal functioning of memory, but with age it becomes more difficult to absorb it from food, so it is better to take tablets. Nootropics also help improve blood circulation in the brain. But remember that any medications should only be prescribed by a doctor.
Tips on how to improve memory in old age
In addition to physical activity and special nutrition, what else can be done to improve memory in old age?
1. It is important to load your memory. Studying a foreign language, solving logic problems, solving crossword puzzles - everything that makes the “brains work”, that is, memorize, recall, think. Any activity where your head has to process a large amount of information will benefit your memory.
2. While working, you need to take short breaks every hour. You can get up, walk around the room, and do some physical exercises. This way the brain will switch from one type of activity to another, and this will benefit its functioning.
3. You should try to avoid stress and anxiety, as they lead to loss of nerve cells, which causes a decrease in attention and memory deterioration. Chronic lack of sleep can also be considered stress for the body. For proper brain rest, it is very important to get a good night's sleep every day.
4. An organizer can help age-old forgetfulness. Nowadays, stores offer a large selection of notebooks of different sizes and colors. Everyone will find something to their liking. You can record all important dates and plan things in it. It also allows you to “unload your head.”
5. Reading books trains your memory well, since during reading not only visual memory works, but also motor memory, and logical, associative, and abstract thinking develops. But to improve memory, it is important not just to read, it is necessary to do it correctly, with a retelling of what you read, since most of all we train our memory at the time when we remember what we read! It is useful, while reading, to note the details of the characters of the main characters, their habits and the like. After reading the book, remember all the plot lines. This kind of memory training will be beneficial.
6. A feature of all brilliant people is their attention to detail; when they meet a new person, they can immediately see many small details and remember them. Brilliant people are people with well-functioning heads, this is undeniable. Therefore, to improve memory in old age, you can adopt this technique of gifted minds and try to learn to be more attentive. To do this, you need to try to look at any object you have chosen very carefully, and noting the details of its appearance, then try to reproduce them in your memory. Get yourself such a useful habit.
7. There is a useful exercise for improving memory at any age - memorizing poetry. Choose any poet you are interested in and start studying all his works by heart. And then remember at any time.
8. It has long been known that playing music has a beneficial effect on brain function. In old age, you can sing, alone or in a choir, or start learning to play a musical instrument, or all of this at the same time. During rehearsals, memorizing texts, notes, mastering new things, the brain will receive a load, which will have a positive effect on the state of memory.
9. Don't forget about psychology. Positive attitudes help you cope with any task. Older people are more susceptible to depression than anyone else, and it also leads to memory impairment. Attitudes such as: “I’m too old to learn new things”, “After 30 years (40, 50, etc.) I’m no longer fit for anything” and the like, not only lead to undermining self-esteem, but also indirectly lead to memory impairment. Therefore, it is important to set yourself up correctly. Believe that in old age life does not end, but only begins - the children have grown up, work has ended, there is a pension, you can live for your own pleasure!
10. At any age, it will be useful to master the techniques of mnemonics (mnemonics) - the science of simplifying memorization by forming associations, replacing memorized objects and facts with familiar concepts and ideas.
For people over 60 years of age, and in the modern world there is a tendency for age-related indicators to decline, memory weakening is characteristic. Moreover, amnesia progresses in a retrograde manner, that is, current events are forgotten, details and moments of life are gradually blurred in reverse order, and childhood memories and images last the longest. At the same time, if you do not train your memory, the process cannot be reversed and it will not be possible to restore the lost function.
A combination of active and passive rest to improve memory
Problems with remembering information can arise from overexertion. To eliminate this risk factor, you need to learn how to dose work and rest.
Interesting fact! Many famous and outstanding personalities, such as Marietta Shaginyan, A. I. Herzen, V. A. Obruchev and others, preferred to engage in mental work only in the first half of the day, and in the early morning hours.
But besides work, they could arrange their schedule so that they had time to do everything they needed and not get tired.
The main thing that needs to be observed when resting is the correct ratio of passive and active rest.
Passive rest is a walk in the park, a trip to a cafe or restaurant, or relaxing on the beach. Such a vacation will help you relax and recuperate, think about problems and their solutions.
Active recreation is:
- travel to other countries;
- climbing mountains;
- diving;
- skydiving or bungee jumping;
- cycling and much more.
This type of relaxation will help relieve emotional stress, take your mind off problems, and learn something new.
But if your schedule does not allow you to frequently include trips to cafes and trips to other countries, then the best option would be to alternate between different types of mental work.
And also, following the example of the philosopher Voltaire, divide papers on different topics into different folders and boxes, that is, structure them.
Features of memory in older people
Memory loses its functions not only due to age-related characteristics of the brain, but also for a number of other reasons:
- Narrowing of interests;
- Weakening of attention due to uselessness;
- Sedentary lifestyle;
- Disruption of various neural connections.
Since in old age people often do not work, sit at home and practically do not engage in mental activity, memory declines much more severely. Practice shows that retirees who continue to work maintain many intellectual indicators at a higher level.
Among the physiological reasons for memory deterioration at this age are:
- Problems with blood supply to the brain;
- Decrease in the number of nerve cells in the brain.
However, such disorders are strictly individual, since it is not so rare for a person to have an excellent memory in old age. Basically, these are people who, intentionally or not, constantly kept her stimulated.
WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN
Unfortunately, we can name a lot of reasons that do not, frankly speaking, contribute to improving memory in the elderly. Moreover, some of them are “relevant” at any age. “Point blows” in the form of traumatic brain injuries can contribute to the appearance of “white spots.” Or “incorrect mode of operation of the brain”: its “overheating” in the form of stress, chronic fatigue, both physical and mental, various nervous shocks.
Of course, over time, all these negative factors “accumulate” and “layer on.” They may well be supplemented by exacerbations of chronic diseases of other organs, complications after suffering “seasonal infections”, to which, alas, an older person is much more susceptible than a “young person”. And, of course, a general “slowdown” of the “biochemistry” of the brain and a gradual “failure” of its cells.
General Recommendations for Slowing Memory Decay
- First of all, you need to carefully monitor your own body, identify violations in a timely manner and immediately consult a doctor. Particularly dangerous are chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, for example, atherosclerosis, which negatively affect memory.
- Maintaining the required level of physical activity also affects brain function, so older people need exercise. It may not be as intense as compared to young people and must necessarily take into account all contraindications.
- Proper nutrition plays an important role in improving memory. The brain needs a large amount of glucose per day, the lack of which will have a bad effect on its functioning. To prevent or alleviate atherosclerosis, you should not eat foods containing a lot of cholesterol.
- Handmade work, such as knitting or embroidery, is suitable for memory training. In addition, a high level of fine motor skills is maintained and attentiveness improves.
- Walking in the fresh air helps improve oxygen supply to the brain, thereby maintaining its performance at a high level. Also, during walks, you can strain your memory, trying to remember in as much detail as possible the places you managed to visit.
TOP 10 means to improve memory and brain function
The celebrations dedicated to the anniversary have died down, and at your 50th birthday it’s time to think about such simple but important things as how you will meet your coming old age. And, first of all, you need to improve the environment for the functioning of the brain. Here are the main postulates for the philosophy of your behavior:
- work in such a way that you are not on the verge of tension, both mental and physical. With your baggage of past years, you no longer need this. It's time to take care of yourself;
- learn to relax. Not only every year on vacation, but every month, every week and even every day;
- A daily walk in the fresh air is mandatory.
For your brain to function properly, you need to have healthy blood circulation. Regular training will help in this matter. Walking and swimming, cycling and exercise equipment are faithful helpers for older people.
It is impossible to maintain normal memory if you do not eat right. Scientists recommend including fatty acids in your diet daily to improve brain function. These are the famous omega-3s. Pay attention to berries such as blueberries. After 50 years, the juice of this berry will saturate your body with antioxidants.
The performance of the brain is influenced by various factors. Possible causes of memory impairment include stress, fatigue, bad habits, and poor nutrition. Information that arrives in huge quantities and needs to be constantly processed also has a serious impact. To help your body, you need to take pills to improve memory and attention.
There are many remedies that will help the brain work faster and improve memory. Here are the most famous and effective ones according to users.
Glycine
This drug normalizes brain activity and accelerates metabolic processes. Glycine also improves sleep. The tablets have a metabolic effect and support vital processes.
Nootropil
Taking Nootropil improves memory, increases concentration, and normalizes brain function. Contains piracite and other nootropic compounds. Taking this drug helps to better remember information and prevents the formation of blood clots. The main advantage is that the drug does not excite the central nervous system.
Intellan
It is considered a tonic drug that contains vitamins and minerals. When consumed regularly, metabolism is stimulated. Intellan enriches the body with valuable microelements and reduces fatigue. This drug is often prescribed for stress, anxiety, and depression.
Piracetam
Piracetam has a nootropic effect. The drug is prescribed to restore memory, improve concentration, and get rid of lethargy and dizziness. The drug normalizes the functioning of the vestibular apparatus and fights depression.
Fenotropil
Nootropic drug for improving memory and brain cell function. It makes it easier to remember information, which is why it is so popular among students during exam periods. The product accelerates the exchange of data between the left and right hemispheres and improves mood.
Tanakan
Refers to herbal medicines, helps speed up blood circulation, nourishes brain cells with glucose. Tanakan also prevents the formation of blood clots, eliminates tinnitus, and helps restore visual acuity. It also normalizes blood circulation, thereby increasing the brain’s ability to learn and remember information.
Picamilon
It is considered a nootropic drug, used to normalize blood supply after bruises and head injuries, for migraines and glaucoma. This remedy helps withstand severe physical and mental stress, reduces irritability and anxiety.
Aminalon
Good pills to improve memory and brain activity. They help patients who have suffered cardiovascular diseases, as well as those who have high blood pressure, dizziness, atherosclerosis, take it when intoxicated after drinking alcohol or taking medications.
Pantogam
It is considered a medication that is prescribed to patients suffering from schizophrenia and epilepsy. Also, these tablets can be taken by those who are regularly exposed to physical activity and suffer from cerebral vascular pathologies. May be prescribed for the treatment of children with stuttering or attention deficit disorder.
Memoplant
Memoplant is an angioprotector. The product is created on a plant basis. Tones blood vessels, improves metabolism. It is taken for noise in the head, to relieve headaches, and for dizziness.
Exercises to improve memory in old age
The BrainApps website, which has a variety of tests, games and exercises for brain development and support, will be useful for older people who want to keep their memory at a high level.
You also need to perform some simple steps to keep your memory in good shape.
- Memory load. Few people know that such difficult things as learning a foreign language can be done in old age. Moreover, various loads of this kind help stimulate memory and help improve it.
- Reading. While reading a book, we use many elements of brain activity, so literature is useful at any age. In order to further improve memory, you can retell to someone what you have read, trying to reproduce the images as clearly and in detail as possible.
- An exercise to remember the features of an object that should be considered for some time will help improve your memory, after which you should try to reproduce its image in your head in as much detail as possible.
- An excellent exercise is to memorize some poems or excerpts from books that, on occasion, can be recited to loved ones.
- Singing. To develop memory, you can sing in a choir or on your own. In addition to having a pleasant time, many brain processes are trained, because you need to learn the text, hit the notes, remember the melody.
The main thing for older people is not to lose self-confidence and not to think that they can’t do something. After all, a person, no matter how old he is, is capable of anything. Therefore, even at 80 years old, you can maintain an excellent memory if you put a little effort into it.