Your 50s: what can you do to slow memory loss?

What can you do in your 50s to prevent memory loss?

There’s plenty you can do to protect and boost your memory when you reach the big 5-0. Here’s what you can do…

Could this be you?

You still feel 21 but you’ve noticed yourself becoming more reliant on that to-do list than you used to be. Don’t worry, trips and slips in memory can cause panic in fifty-somethings, but are usually a result of having a busy life! Although this is the age that early onset Alzheimer’s might appear, it is very rare and most people still have time to make some positive lifestyle changes to improve brain health and memory.These can include:

Use chopsticks…

Or anything that encourages you to use the tips of your fingers. Studies have shown that engaging the nerve cells in your fingertips can actually stimulate your brain. There are millions of nerve endings in your hands and fingers which send messages up to your brain, so using them means you’ll be constantly sending the brain information, which will stimulate it.Tip: Other activities worth trying include knitting, playing the piano and even rolling a pen or pencil between your fingers.

Play video games

They’re not just for children and teenagers – video games can also be useful for all ages, as they stimulate the brain, form new connections and boost your memory. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on them either.Tip: If you’ve got a mobile phone or tablet, you can usually download games to them – far cheaper than buying expensive gaming equipment.

Believe in yourself

If you keep telling yourself that your memory is ‘really bad’ or you’re bound to forget something, then chances are you will. There are lots of myths about how ageing can contribute to a failing memory, and paying too much attention to these kinds of negative stereotypes can actually affect your performance. Besides, if you start to believe you’re not in control of your memory, because it’s ‘just your age’ then you’re less likely to take positive steps to maintain and improve it – which is a great shame.Tip: Have some belief in yourself – feeling more positive could boost your mood and your memory.