|  | Conditions Treatments | Illness

Tips on Improving Memory

Memory is the way the human brain recalls information that has been experienced or learned. There are two types of memory: short term and long term. Areas of the brain like the hippocampus, cerebral cortex and amygdala play the largest roles in processing information and storing memories. Age and stress can effect the way that we are able to recollect information. Find out what you can do to improve your memory.

  1. Tips for Improving Memory in Children

    • According to Professor Susan Hallam of the Institute of Education at the University of London, children who learned how to play an instrument not only enlarged the left side of their brains, but also remembered almost a fifth more information than children who were not musically inclined. Her research review to the Department for Children, Schools and Families has catapulted the effort to expand musical programs in England. Encourage your child to play a musical instrument by playing him music or taking him to an instrument store. Rent an instrument for a month to see how she enjoys it before settling with one instrument. Enroll your child in an after-school music program if her school doesn't have one. Many recreation centers offer classes for kids. Help your child establish a routine for practicing. See how your child's sense of accomplishment and memory is improved by playing a musical instrument.

    Mental Exercising

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, keeping your brain active requires some mental aerobics. Mentally stimulating activities can improve memory in all facets of life. Try reading thought-provoking materials or learning about a subject that interests you. Conduct random research. Instead of relying on the Internet, check out some books about history, literature or biography, or a how-to guide. Play crossword puzzles. Even driving a different way to work or home can activate your mind and make you more mentally proficient. Take on problems that don't directly relate to you, such as volunteering at a charity or helping out at a fundraiser.

    Stay Organized

    • Staying organized goes hand in hand with remaining focused. Chaotic environments can put a damper on remembering when to pay bills, what chores need to be done and when appointments are. Organize your house. You can either do this step in one swoop or start in small increments: for example, every week take on an organizational project. Buy file cabinets to put old bills, tax receipts and any other important documents. Go through the house and throw out things you don't use or don't need. Buy large plastic storage bins to keep papers or important items in the garage. Instead of throwing bills on the counter, set up online accounts to have your cable, rent or electric bills taken out. Hang a calendar up to show your important appointments.

      The more organized you become, the less you are forced to remember, which frees up space in your mind. Even having one designated spot that you place your house keys and wallet can allow you to remember things like social events or work-related activities. Create a peaceful home life and see how you are able to remember day-to-day matters.

Illness - Related Articles