Unconventional Methods to Boost Your Memory
We all want to keep our memories sharp, but as we get older, our cognitive abilities naturally start to fade. Luckily, there are a few simple and even quirky strategies you can use to boost your memory.
### Chewing Gum
Believe it or not, chewing gum might help you remember things better. Researchers at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle, UK, discovered that people who chewed gum while learning performed significantly better on memory tests. In their study, gum-chewers did 24% better on immediate memory recall tests and 36% better on delayed recall tests compared to those who didn’t chew gum. They also showed more accuracy in tests measuring spatial working memory.
### Sleep
There’s a growing amount of research showing how important sleep is for remembering information. At Michigan State University, studies found a strong link between good memory retention and sleep. Participants who learned new information right before sleeping remembered it better than those who stayed awake for long periods after learning.
Another study, published in Nature Neuroscience, pointed out that structural changes in the brain as we age may disrupt sleep and lead to memory loss. Dr. Kevin Berry emphasized how crucial adequate sleep is for cognitive function. He noted that poor sleep is connected not only to short-term memory issues but also to serious long-term conditions like dementia. While we can’t prevent all age-related sleep problems, we can adopt better sleep habits and seek treatment for any underlying sleep disorders.
### Social Media
Interestingly, being somewhat distracted can help older adults retain information better. A study from the University of Toronto found that older people learn better when information is presented amid distractions. Building on this idea, researchers at the International Neuropsychological Society’s annual meeting showed that seniors trained on Facebook had a 25% improvement in memory retention compared to those who didn’t use the platform at all.
### The Mind-Body Connection
While tricks like these can help, the best way to maintain your mental sharpness is by staying physically healthy. Research indicates that regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to slower cognitive decline. So, if you want to keep your mind sharp, make sure to eat well and stay active!
By incorporating some of these simple strategies into your routine, you can help keep your memory in tip-top shape as you age.
