Possibly one of the most common jokes about those getting older is their inability to remember things. As funny as those comments may be, memory loss is a very real problem for geriatrics patients. While it is a fact of life that remembering people, dates, facts and ‘to-do’s’ are tough as people age, there’s are ways to help you and your geriatric loved ones “exercise their brain.1”
Before you assume I am going to suggest an expensive program, all of my suggestions are free! Thanks to Livestrong.com, I have several ideas for activities to do with your loved ones in geriatrics care that are simple and effective! 1
First, find a new challenge and pursue it. Care for your brain by trying a new skill or visiting the library to rent an interesting book. You may have always wanted to learn a new language or try a new hobby. There is no better time than now to start learning! Engage some friends at the senior care community or ask a friend or loved one to do it with you. We are naturally more motivated to stick to a challenge when we have someone motivating us. 1
As odd as it may sound, you can care for your mind by caring for your body with physical exercise. According to Livestrong.com, “Increased blood flow and stimulation of the brain during exercise helps enhance brain health in seniors, according to the ‘Senior Journal.’ Strong blood vessels carry oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the brain, necessary for optimal brain health and development… 1” While physical exercise can sometimes be tricky for geriatrics patients who are undergoing home health care or therapy for a physical ailment or condition, you can contact your geriatrics care physician to get approval on physical activity.
Additionally, there are free “brain games” online that you can use to care for your memory. These games include challenges for one’s math skills, word recognition, reasoning skills and pattern memory1. Memory care services such as Lumosity give free memory games and measurement. They can even challenge themselves by competing with other geriatrics care patients their age.
The last suggestion is unconventional, but effective for memory care. Livestrong.com calls it “Neurobics” – you can exercise and care for your mind by using the five senses in new and challenging ways. For example, “try buttoning your shirt or tying your shoes with your eyes closed. Try eating with your non-dominant hand, or using the computer mouse with your left hand instead of your right. 1”
What else can you do to care for you and your loved one’s memory?
1 Stern, D. (2014) Free Brain Exercises for Seniors. Livestrong. Retrieved Oct. 28, 2014 from