Remember memorizing the order of the colors of the rainbow in elementary school? A lot of us were introduced to Roy G. Biv to master this feat – among the many mnemonics we learn that, remarkably, often stay with us for life.
As we grow older, some amount of memory impairment is to be anticipated; and naturally it is even more pronounced when Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia is a factor. Medical researchers are continuously aiming to find effective strategies to improve memory and cognitive functioning and have discovered some interesting findings on “old school” techniques such as mnemonics. Here’s what they have most recently discovered:
Mnemonics
Mnemonics produces an association to a memory through a song, phrase, abbreviation, etc. This kind of training revealed noteworthy results in increasing activity in areas of the brain that are impacted by Alzheimer’s, leading to increased retention of information.
You will find limitless mnemonic strategies which can be highly effective in improving memory. For instance, try mnemonic keywords. These are a fun and creative option to memorize words in a different language. It involves choosing a word that’s much like the new word you want to learn, and visualizing an image that brings the 2 words together. For example, if you’re wanting to remember that chapeau is French for the term “hat,” you could picture Charlie Chaplin and his infamous black hat. The “Chap” part of his name can trigger the initial letters in chapeau, and the memory will stick.
Spaced Retrieval Training
This tactic involves slowly increasing the length of time between memory tests and was shown to also be extremely successful for those with Alzheimer’s. When compared to mnemonics, however, there was actually a reduction in brain activity, leading medical researchers to determine that the information was being processed more efficiently.
Spaced retrieval training is extremely helpful for maximizing independence and reducing anxiety for people with cognitive challenges. Choose a desired activity or event for the person to keep in mind, like a lunch date with a pal on Friday. First ask the person a question to determine if the memory is already in place. If not, remind them that they are having lunch with Sally on Friday. Wait 15 seconds, and ask the individual the question again. In the event that the memory is in place now, increase the time to 30 seconds, and ask again, continuing to increase the time and ask again. In the event that the person doesn’t remember after 15 seconds, keep repeating the process every 15 seconds several more times before determining that this isn’t an effective technique, at least not for this particular event or activity.
Both tactics are simple, drug-free techniques to incorporate into the treatment for someone in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or even for anybody who is seeking strategies to improve memory.
Let Independence-4-Seniors Home Care provide additional support and resources for someone you love with Alzheimer’s. Our innovative techniques to care help make the most of a senior’s cognitive functioning, independence, and quality of life. Reach out to us at (630) 323-4665 for more information about our Alzheimer’s care in Hinsdale and the surrounding areas.