I have had many conversations with seniors about memory loss, not only through the workshops I give, but in general conversation usually as a humorous aside. It is the kind of conversation, that many of us do not want to have with our loved ones, but we can talk about it with friends, by making jokes about it. As we age, many of us worry about memory loss, Alzheimer’s, or dementia. When we have a conversation, I tell my friends that there is good news—forgetfulness is not an automatic part of getting older. Most people think of memory as one thing, so we have to be reminded that our brain has different types of memory, and not all of them decline with age. Understanding how memory works is a key that can help you take control keep your mind sharp, and remove some anxiety about lapses of memory. Memory is the process of how we store and retrieve information, and it has several forms. To fully appreciate the benefits of mental exercise, it helps to understand the three main types of memory:
Short-term memory: This is your brain’s temporary
storage system. Sensory memory holds impressions for a short time. Think about
the sound of the sound of a bird chirping or the scent of fresh coffee in the
morning. Short-term memory (or working memory) helps us hold onto information
briefly, like remembering a phone number before dialling it. If you are like me,
I have to double-check the number as I am dialling it just to make sure I have
it correct.
Sensory memory and Short-term memory are two types of
memory, there are others. Long-term memory stores information for years,
covering everything from personal experiences (episodic memory) to general
knowledge (semantic memory) and learned skills (procedural memory). The good
news? Skills and well-practiced knowledge, like riding a bike, or driving a car,
don’t fade easily.
Long-term memory: This is where information is stored
for extended periods—days, years, or even a lifetime. Long-term memory includes
personal experiences (episodic memory), factual knowledge (semantic memory),
and skills (procedural memory), such as driving or playing an instrument. Memory
is a collection of different ways our brain holds onto information. Some types,
like procedural memory (how to tie your shoes or cook a favourite dish), remain
strong well into old age. However, I now prefer slip on shoes, even though I know
how to tie my laces.
Working memory: Often confused with short-term
memory, working memory is an active process that helps us hold and manipulate
information. Working memory or procedural memory, may require more effort to
maintain. Working memory is the ability to temporarily store and use
information while performing a task. It's a key part of learning, reasoning,
and decision-making, and you can improve it by writing down a phone number you
are trying to remember or by taking notes on a book you are reading.
A key to maintaining memory is keeping your brain active. My
wife and I work out our mental muscles every morning by doing some of the
puzzles in the New York Times online games (https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords)
We play Connections, Wordle, and The Mini Puzzle. Most times she beats me. Try
to think of your brain like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it
stays. Just like physical exercise keeps your body fit, mental exercise keeps
your brain healthy.
With over 42 years of teaching experience, I believe that one of the best things you can do to enhance memory is to continue learning. I read a book every two or three days for pleasure and educational purposes. As I challenge my brain with new information, I build new routes in my brain. Because I am interested in ageing well, I ensure that I keep abreast of the latest data; I ponder it, examine it and subsequently publish it on this blog. My youngest brother is studying a new language and learning how to play chess as a new hobby. One of my brothers is writing children's books and poetry The thing is that the more work you do on new stuff, the better your brain can keep pace with remembering information.
Reading, writing, and puzzles are great ways to engage your mind. So is social interaction, so I meet with my volunteer groups and my friends once a week or more to discuss ideas, I attend and also give lectures. I know some of my other friends love playing trivia games, I did at one point, but do not have the time to do so now. These activities stimulate our brains and keep our memory pathways strong. When I was younger, I was curious about many things, and I am hopeful that I will never lose that love of being curious. I would urge you to never stop being curious. The more you explore and learn, the healthier your brain stays.
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