Tips to Keep Memory Sharp and Improve Cognitive Function STRENGTH OF MIND
in greater retention of neural matter — particularly in the hippocampus.” In short, exercises like swimming and running keep the part of our brain responsible for memory from shrinking. Spend Time With Friends and Family Humans are social creatures. Many studies have shown that being a part of a supportive social group can significantly benefit our physical and mental health. In fact, the American Journal of Public Health reports that people who have daily contact with friends and family cut their risk of dementia and mental impairment almost in half. Our mental diaries may be longer and fuller than they were in Wilde’s day, but if we fill those pages with hobbies, exercise, and close friends, our memories will remain sharp and vivid for the rest of our days.
Irish poet Oscar Wilde once called memory “the diary that we all carry about with us.” Of course, in Wilde’s time, the average life expectancy was less than 50 years old. As modern medicine continues to enable people to live longer, these “diaries” tend to become muddled. Fortunately, there are ways to counteract the natural dulling of our memory that comes with time.
retirement, often to make up for the loss of stimulating challenges that work used to provide. Get Physical Taking care of our physical health has also been shown to help brain function. According to a study by Sydney University in Australia, aerobic exercise is particularly good at jogging our memory. The researchers note that “aerobic exercise acts by preventing the usual decrease in neurogenesis associated with aging, thus resulting
Puzzle Yourself Just like any other muscle, our brain needs a workout in order to stay strong. As Dr. Celeste Robb- Nicholson of Harvard Medical School writes, “Challenging your brain with mental exercise is believed to activate processes that help maintain individual brain cells.” Activities like solving puzzles, learning a musical instrument, or picking up a new hobby work wonders to keep your mind active and your memory sharp. These mental exercises are especially important after
Bill Shares His Story What Our Patients Say
“I was a complete mess when I contacted Dr. Alff. I had burning and tingling in both feet and was suffering from zero use of my left shoulder. I even had gout in my right wrist and hand. When asked what my pain level was between 1–10, I was a 15! I was taking about 14 pain pills a day. The change after undergoing care with Dr. Alff was an amazing thing! After being deaf for 40 years, I went to my doctor, and he told me that I now have 35 percent hearing in my right ear!
I am not done with my treatment yet, but the burning and tingling in my feet is almost gone! I can use my left shoulder 50 percent more than I could before! My gout has vanished, and my pain level is way down. Even in just the short time I have known Dr. Alff and his outstanding staff, I’ve grown to look forward to my appointments. I feel like I am going to see my
friends each time!” - Bill H., Ventura
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