Last Update: 07/29/07

Healthy Living in Oakridge

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Preventing memory loss

from WebMD Health®

The impact of age-related memory problems can often be reduced. The saying “use it or lose it” applies to your memory. Your best defense against a memory problem is to stay healthy and fit.

• Eat a balanced diet. A balanced, low-fat diet with ample sources of vitamins B12 and folate will help protect the nervous system.
• Drink plenty of water. This helps to prevent dehydration, which can cause confusion and memory problems.
• Get plenty of rest. Being tired can impair your memory.
• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products. Tobacco products decrease blood flow to the brain, raise blood pressure, and increase your risk of stroke.
• Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can improve the blood flow to your brain.
• Reduce your stress. Being anxious can impair your memory.
• Socialize with family and friends. Research has shown that people who regularly get together with family or friends are less likely to lose mental functioning. Socializing also helps you stay connected with your community.
• Try to learn new things. This may help increase your attention span and ability to focus. Play stimulating mind games, such as Scrabble, or do a crossword puzzle or jumble.
• Limit your alcohol intake and do not use "street drugs," such as cocaine, crack, or amphetamines. Decrease your use of nonprescription medications. Overuse of medications may be the single biggest cause of memory loss or confusion in older adults.
• Keep your blood pressure in the 130/85 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) range. Take your high blood pressure medications as directed. Untreated high blood pressure can cause memory problems and affect problem-solving abilities.
• Seek treatment for depression if you may be depressed. Memory loss may be a symptom of depression.
• Prevent accidents and injuries that might lead to memory problems.
  • Wear your seat belt when in a motor vehicle.
  • Use child car seats.
  • Do not use alcohol or other drugs before participating in sports or when operating an automobile or other equipment.
  • Wear a helmet and other protective clothing whenever you are biking, motorcycling, skating, kayaking, horseback riding, or rock climbing.
  • Wear a hard hat if you work in an industrial area.
  • Do not dive into shallow or unfamiliar water.
  • Prevent falls in your home by removing hazards that might cause a fall.
  • Do not keep firearms in your home. If you must keep firearms, lock them up and store them unloaded and uncocked. Lock ammunition in a separate area.

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