Brain Exercises to Improve Memory: 4 Activities That Support Focus and Recall

Seniors should consider brain exercises to improve memory, such as games, recall exercises, and number or pattern challenges. They help the brain grow and fight against cognitive decline.

Many seniors have already realized how important this is. According to AARP, approximately 2/3 of adults over 40 are embracing habits to improve their brain health.

Senior living in Knoxville, TN, allows seniors to thrive in a former state capital. They can explore the historic Market Square or explore outdoor activities, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Connection Between Aging and Memory

There are several biological reasons that seniors struggle with memory and focus. The brain's structure changes with age.

The hippocampus begins to shrink. It's a brain region that's related to memory.

Processing speed also begins to slow. It becomes harder to find memories when you need them.

Distractions become louder and more difficult to ignore. This makes focusing more difficult, and that also makes it harder to encode memories.

What Are Red Flags of Cognitive Decline?

According to the Journal of Alzheimer's and Dementia, approximately 72 million seniors aged 65 or older live with Alzheimer's dementia today. It's one of the most common chronic conditions in seniors.

The effects can show up early. They can even appear in assisted living communities.

One of the most frequently cited red flags for cognitive decline is frequent memory lapses. These go beyond occasionally forgetting where you parked to forgetting, almost being the new norm.

That can also extend into conversations. It can be difficult to remember the right words to say. It's also common to need phrases repeated and require constant reassurance that you got it right.

Personality or mood changes are common. Cognitive decline can cause personality changes such as agitation.

It can become difficult to perform daily tasks due to poor judgment or confusion about time or place. These could be signs that it's time to move into a memory care community, but they're also signs that you should train your brain more.

What Are Brain-Training Exercises?

A brain-training exercise is an activity or habit designed to train the brain. It's then repeated to keep the effects going.

They work thanks to what's known as neuroplasticity. The brain is always looking to strengthen existing neural connections and make new ones.

The right brain-training exercises help increase neuroplasticity. They also help slow down age-related decline and improve senior brain health.

Four Brain Exercises to Improve Memory, Focus, and Recall

There are several types of brain exercises seniors can try to improve memory and focus. These activities are enjoyable, effective, and often social.

1. Number and Pattern Challenges

Number exercises help challenge working memory and maintain sustained concentration.

There are several options. Try the add three minus seven method.

Pick a three-digit number. Add three to it three times. Subtract seven from that seven times.

Repeat the process five times, then do it with a new number. You can also try the exercise with four-digit numbers to mix it up and challenge your mind.

Sudoku and crosswords are also fun options. They improve logical reasoning as well as pattern recognition and recall.

2. Observation and Detail Recall Exercises

One of the most well-supported forms of cognitive training is known as passive memory training. Notice details about a person or item and then repeat them later.

Following this method is one of the best memory and mental focus tips because it works with your brain, not against it. Humans are pattern-recognizing machines, so learning to do this naturally is a helpful exercise.

Repeating experiences, fictional or not, can help train the brain. Try telling stories or summarizing what you've read.

Writing things down encodes them even more deeply in your mind. Try keeping a journal.

3. Repeat and Recall Conversations

Staying socially active is important for all facets of life, especially your brain. According to the World Health Organization, around 11.8% of seniors report feelings of loneliness.

Socialization and brain training can be done simultaneously. Try silently repeating spoken words as you listen. It strengthens concentration and recall.

4. Games and Creative Activities

Try games focused on memory and language. Strategy games such as chess are also a great option. They require planning and problem-solving. They also stimulate your working memory.

Learning new information can help your brain remember old information. Teaching the skill to others is even better. It encodes information more deeply, making it easier to remember.

Keys for Memory-Boosting Routines

Seniors need to build memory-boosting routinesthat follow a few simple rules.

They must be varied and interesting. Otherwise, your brain will get bored and won't receive the full benefits.

They must be complex enough. They have to stretch your mind outside its comfort zone.

The most important part is consistency. Brain exercises to improve memory, along with healthy habits, need to be a lifestyle, not a one-time experiment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Common Habits Are Linked to Dementia?

Senior brain tips shouldn't only focus on what habits can help improve your mind. They also need to warn you about which ones can make it worse.

Several common habits can increase your risk for dementia. They include:

Limited physical activity
Poor diet
Smoking
Alcohol
Hearing loss

Can You Reverse Dementia if It's Caught Early?

Progressive forms of dementia like Alzheimer's can't be reversed or cured. However, you can manage symptoms and slow progression with the proper lifestyle.

Early detection can also help you find diseases that present similar symptoms, such as:

Thyroid issues
Normal pressure hydrocephalus or NPH
Medication side effects
Lymes disease

What Vitamin Deficiency Is Linked to Dementia?

According to data found in the journal Aging and Health Research, there are several vitamin deficiencies linked to dementia. They include:

B vitamins
Vitamin D
Vitamin E

Other vitamins that affect memory include thiamine.

Enjoy a Stimulating Life at The Pointe at Lifespring Today

Using brain exercises to improve memory helps seniors maintain their cognitive health. It also keeps their life varied and interesting.

The Pointe at Lifespring offers senior living in Knoxville, TN. Our assisted living community provides weekly housekeeping and three delicious chef-prepared meals a day.

Our SHINE© Memory Care is personalized to each resident. We treat them the way we'd want our families to be treated. That includes a combination of daily experiences and supportive care.

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