Act Fast & Combat Memory Loss Peace of Mind Post MARCH 2020
DON’T LET A CONCUSSION STEAL YOUR MEMORIES
J ust last week, someone asked me a fun question: “Would you rather live every day with the memories you have up to this point, or would you rather forget everything you knew and live your life from that point on?” It’s an age-old question that gives many people pause. What’s more important — the memories we’ve cultivated so far or those we’re looking forward to experiencing with our loved ones? I think it’s tough to answer because all of our memories are invaluable. taking photos and videos to capture the moments; it involves protecting our memory itself. The third week of March is Brain Awareness Week, and I want to share some of the ways we can strengthen our memory so we don’t forget a second of life’s most meaningful events. Brain Foods Fatty fish are a rich source of omega-3s, a major component of the brain that is crucial to sharpening memory and protecting our brain against deterioration. Studies have shown that omega-3s slow the process of age-related mental decline and fend off Alzheimer’s disease. Some fatty fish to incorporate into your are include salmon, trout, and sardines. Blueberries also have a lot of antioxidants, which alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation. These two conditions contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Turmeric, a yellow spice known as an ingredient in curry powder, has several benefits for the brain. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may improve memory in people with Alzheimer’s disease. It accomplishes this by clearing amyloid plaque in the brain, which are a leading cause of the disease. Best Practices As we age, we have to continue to learn and expand our general hobbies from our typical routines. While I don’t read as much as I want, it keeps my brain active and thinking, and I thoroughly enjoy it. Right now, I’m reading “The Growth Mindset” by Carol Dweck. Brain safety is also crucial to maintaining our memories because concussions can cause severe memory loss. CTE in football players is probably It also reminds me how fragile our memories are and how important it is that we do everything we can to protect them. This goes beyond
the most widely known form of brain and memory problems caused by concussions, but you don’t have to be a professional athlete to be at risk for concussions. I’ve ridden horses my entire life, but until about fifteen years ago, I never wore a helmet. When I was 23, I fell off and hit my head on the side of the arena. The pain was significant, and it took me several days to feel normal again. Now, I wear my riding helmet every time I ride. My father recently had a bad experience as well. He was leading one of our horses into the barn when it got scared and ran into him, slamming him into the ground. He had a concussion and was definitely not himself for several days afterward, but we were fortunate it wasn’t worse.
“Fatty fish are a rich source of omega-3s, a major component of the brain that is crucial to sharpening memory and protecting our brain against deterioration.” Soaking up some Arizona sunshine at the N3AP (National Alliance of Attorneys for Alzheimer’s Planning) Conference last month. New studies have shown Vitamin D can help protect your brain.
In the spirit of Brain Awareness Week, when you’re not snacking on brain foods, take a few minutes to play a full-brain teaser like completing a sudoku puzzle or working on a jigsaw puzzle! Like reading a book, these games are a fun way to keep your brain active and healthy.
724.256.8850
1
trinityelderlaw.comMade with FlippingBook Learn more on our blog