By Dr. Mark Siemer, MD
-Attend to ONE task at a time and avoid external distractions.
-Simplify information and remember them one-by-one, or one step at a time; like making cookies.
-Categorize information. Like shopping in the produce section; what do I need from this part of the store?
-Rehearse and practice repeatedly. Set a time every day, like you would for exercise. This is my time to get to work on my memory…..cross word puzzles, Sudoku puzzles, playing bridge with friends, etc.
-Be quiet and observe the special features. Visualization training. Calm the body.
-Exercise daily. I call this “Be the golden retriever.” Free the mind by repeating the body movements.
-Preserve the senses. Large print to read, if needed. Wear the hearing aid. Get the cataract surgery, if needed.
-Develop strategies or memory aids, such as: large calendars, make check lists, use colorful labels, etc.
-MOST OF ALL, be proud and confident and have a positive attitude. “I will maintain good memory.”
