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Impacts That Can Improve Your Memory

Improving Memory Function

Our brains, like our muscles, need to be exercised to stay healthy and functioning at its best.  As we age, our memory fades. It can be hard to remember the simplest of things when our bodies get less energy and experience fatigue in our later years. During post acute care, seniors are recommended to eat well and exercise their brains to improve memory function for better health.

Foods That Impact Your Memory

One study found that people with the healthiest diets were 24% less likely to have a decline in cognitive function. There are many factors that can contribute to a decrease in memory, and scientists have determined that diet is one of the key reasons memory can fade with age. 

Here are some foods that will help boost memory and brain function as well as lead to a happier and healthier life.

Fatty Fish Helps Memory Function

One of the best brain foods is fatty fish due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids. Your brain is made of about 60% fat and uses omega-3s to build essential brain and nerve cells fundamental to learning and memory.

Blueberries Help With Memory Function

Like other deeply colored fruits and vegetables, blueberries have an excellent source of antioxidants. These plant compounds act against oxidative stress and inflammation that may cause brain aging.

Turmeric

This ancient spice and it’s deep yellow color have wonderful benefits for cognitive function. The active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to directly enter the brain and benefit the cells through boosting serotonin and dopamine improving mood.

Eating a poor diet can be a major risk factor in developing cardiovascular disease, as well as Alzheimer’s. A study by the University of Cambridge found that people higher on the obesity scale were 15-20% worse at testing their memory function than participants at a more healthy weight.

Memory Function Exercises for Older Adults

Engaging in skillful mental activities help keep your memory and cognitive ability as sharp as you age. With regular practice and the willingness to learn something new, healthy adults can improve their memory. 

Try out these ideas to exercise your brain:

Hone Your Motor Skills

Learning a new hobby, like knitting, scrap-booking, or drawing are great ways to improve your memory. These activities can help with hand-eye coordination and keep your brain active.

Ditch The Calculator

Improving your memory function can be as simple as forcing yourself to figure out a math problem without relying on a calculator. So the next time you find yourself at a restaurant, calculate the tip mentally and resist using modern smartphones to do the digits for you.

Play More Games

Brain workouts shouldn’t be stressful, so plan on making them fun for yourself. Playing games is a great way to stay mentally active and may even help ward off Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive declines. Try out Cranium Crunches for fun games your brain will love.

How South Coast Post Acute Can Help with Memory Function

At South Coast Post Acute we want to give our patients the best post-hospital care. Our post-acute care professionals are available to help you maintain your memory function as long as possible. Stimulating your brain will help keep your muscles strong and agile.

Contact us today for a tour and more information on our memory and post-acute care services. We are the post acute care community of choice in Southern California.

Real People. Remarkable Care. South Coast Post Acute.
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