Games For Memory Loss : Memory Exercises

Article by Paul Allan

An essential element to the prevention of memory loss is memory exercise. This is just as true if trying to recover from memory loss. Activities and games are an ideal way to exercise the memory because they are fun, effective and all around us. In other words we do not need specialist equipment to exercise memory via games. The more the memory is exercised the stronger the memory becomes. Fortunately this is true across any age group. So we have no excuse for not at least attempting to improve or restore our memory. Following are some activities and games to counter memory loss.

If you are a commuter on a train or bus put your memory to the test every day. Try to guess what is around the next corner. List the shops, building and houses in their correct order. Over time you will surprise yourself with the volume of information you can remember. When this becomes too easy, try to remember the street names and the bus stop numbers. Remember who gets off and on at which stops. Maybe you can take more notice of the people in the bus. Take a quick scan of the other commuters, then close your eyes and try to recall which passengers are sitting where. What clothes are they wearing? Are they carrying luggage?

How about some memory games for the regular newspaper reader? Try to recall yesterday’s editorial story. Do the crossword puzzle. If you come across a story which is of special interest to you, read it out aloud. Reading out aloud enhances concentration and therefore assists in memory improvement.

Finding oneself in a new situation is stimulating and can enhance memory. For example take some classes in totally new topics. You might learn another language. Or take up a new musical instrument. Enroll in a cooking class. Write a short story or craft a poem. The options are unlimited. The idea though is just to place yourself in a new stimulating environment where your concentration and enthusiasm is lifted to such a point that it becomes unforgettable.

Let’s go back a bit and talk about the option of learning another language. A great memory aid for second language learning (or math, or science, or whatever) is flashcards. As you work through the language course, make your own pocket-sized flashcards. Write the English word on one side and the target language word on the other side. As you sit in the train, or wait for a friend just take out your flashcards and grab some practice time. You will be surprised by the speed and volume of words you learn this way. The flashcards are just another activity you can use to improve your memory.

Activities and games for memory loss are all around us. It simply is a matter of using observation and concentration and your memory will benefit.