Aging Memory Loss - Myth or Reality

Memory is as natural to us as breathing. It is an ability we all have, yet rarely ever think of – unless we perceive that we are loosing that ability.

Memory lapses are made worse by chronic stress and anxiety.

A study released by the Society for Neuroscience, shows that when it comes to the brain, it’s a question of “use it or lose it.”

We have come to expect that, as we age, our ability to remember will begin to deteriorate. This is not necessarily true. The aging process itself has little, if any, bearing on the ability to recall the information.

With proper diet, nutrition, brain fitness and memory use, the memory should remain sharp and active well into one’s nineties or beyond.

Several factors cause aging brains to experience changes in the ability to retain and retrieve memories:

1. Malnutrition- insufficient supply of essential nutrients (especially the B vitamin and amino acids) to the brain.

2. Prolonged chronic stress

3. Lack of physical exercise lead to insufficient oxygen supply

4. Exposure to free radicals

5. Extensive alcohol and drug consumption (read How to change bad habits in 6 simply steps)

Stress is one of the most significant factors in the decline of the brain. Stress is exacerbated by the way we respond mentally to whatever is going on around us. When you are stressed, tired or angry, it becomes difficult to recall something.

The human body has strange ways of protecting its functions. It inhibits memory recall because it senses that the mind is already overworked and should be protected from further burden.

The moment you are back to your normal relaxed state, it becomes easy to remember things that were evading your memory when you were stressed.

Treating your body well can enhance your ability to process and recall information.

Healthy diet: combine natural food healthy diet with the proper supplements (vitamin B complex, antioxidants, amino acids, co enzyme Q10) and adaptogens.

Regular exercise: increases blood flow and oxygen to your brain; reduces the risk for disorders that lead to memory loss, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Manage stress: cortisol, the stress hormone, can damage the hippocampus if the stress is unrelieved; stress makes it difficult to concentrate.

Herbal supplements to prevent common age related memory loss and maintain overall mental health.

Get the proper amount of rest: sleep is necessary for fatigue and stress prevention; sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea leave you tired and unable to concentrate during the day.

Brain fitness: use your brain on a daily basis. Pursue activities such as reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing mentally challenging brain games.

About the Author

Dr.Inese Millere is Holistic Stress Management coach and consultant who assist women in leadership in creating stress management and work life balance strategies, and healthy lifestyle routines.

If you'd like to talk about coaching with me, please contact me directly at info@action4balance.com with a brief description of your situation.