Can you improve memory skills with memory improvement techniques?

What are Memory Problems?

Memory is defined as the ability to retain and recall information, experiences and procedures such as skills and habits.

Controlled by specific areas of the brain, over time there are certain factors which can lead to the brain becoming unable to process or use memory like it used to. This can lead to all kinds of memory problems, from simply forgetting things more often, to more developed conditions like Senility, Dementia, or Alzheimer’s Disease.

Diagnosing Memory Problems

Properly diagnosing memory problems requires a professional screening and/or evaluation by a healthcare practitioner. However, the following are common conditions that typically begin with symptoms recognizable by the sufferer or close family and friends.

Dementia is a condition characterized by a progressive decline of mental abilities, which results in the restriction of a person’s daily functioning. One of the most well known forms of dementia is called Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative neurological disease that can take a terrible toll on one’s own life, as well as on the lives of the loved ones around them. Many family members wonder how to improve memory for their loved one, but since there is not yet a cure, just providing support can be a great assistance to those struggling with the frustrations.

Senility is a similar condition, but it is not technically a disease in itself. Senility results due to the onset of old age, and the subsequent deterioration of brain cells and memory functioning.

Memory problems do not always have to have clinical diagnoses, however. Sometimes we may find that in our daily lives we simply cannot as easily recall memories as we used to, especially in times of stress or strain. Often times this may be due to poor circulation or nutrition, and while it is not dire, it can make day-to-day life more difficult.

What Causes Memory Problems?

The brain can be affected by various diseases and conditions which can lead to dementia. These include Alzheimer’s disease, strokes, head injuries, and other neuro-degenerative conditions.

All of these can contribute to the deterioration of brain cells, which is one of the leading causes of memory loss. Dementia and Alzheimer’s have not yet, however, been linked to a definite cause.

Although memory function occurs in the brain, it is not limited to the brain. So, environmental, psychological, and emotional factors can all impact our memory, including the ability to create, retain and recall memories. Therefore, paying attention to these likely contributors is one way how to improve memory-- or at the very least, slow the speed of deterioration.

Stress and strain can have a significant impact on our ability to retain memories, as it acts as a distraction and puts our mental abilities under duress. In fact, scientists have discovered a direct link between the development of Alzheimer’s later in life with a significant amount of stress and strain earlier on. Other conditions, such as ADD (in adults and children) and ADHD (in adults and children) have also been linked to memory trouble.

Oxygen is one of the most important factors in maintaining healthy brain function, and therefore a strong memory. If our brains are not receiving enough oxygen, they cannot work as well to store or recall memories. Often times, a lack of oxygen or adequate blood flow to all areas of the brain can leave the brain under-performing, causing reduced memory power.

All kinds of environmental and physical factors can lead to poor oxygen or blood flow, including poor diet, lack of exercise/physical activity, the presence of environmental toxins, or even being overweight. Therefore, keeping the body adequately nourished and maintained can serve as one of the best memory improvement techniques.

Help for Memory Problems

The process of forming and storing memories is a complicated one that primarily involves the brain. And while some things are beyond our control, there are ways to improve our memory skills.

There are alternative treatment options available for people experiencing memory problems. Making simple changes in diet, sleep, exercise, and routine can be helpful memory improvement techniques.

Taking these preventative measures may also help ward off more serious memory problems later in life. Avoiding stress, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise are also proven memory improvement techniques.