Memory Strategies, Brain Exercises, and Games to Boost Cognitive Function

Just like our muscles, our brain needs regular exercise to stay in shape. Including memory strategies, brain exercises, and games into your routine can boost cognitive function. For these methods to have the greatest benefits, it is important to maintain overall brain health by engaging in physical exercise, eating brain-healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and staying connected with family and friends.

Memory Strategies

One easy-to-remember method for improving memory is called the ART of Remembering. ART stands for Attention, Repetition, Tools. Let’s break it down:

• Attention: Focus fully on what you’re trying to remember (e.g., turn off your phone to avoid distractions).
• Repetition: Repeat the information out loud to help it stick.
• Tools: Use helpful tools like taking notes or recording key information on your phone.

For example, at a doctor’s appointment, you could give your full attention to the doctor's instructions, repeat them out loud to confirm your understanding, and then write down or record their advice for later reference.

Another useful technique is called Spaced Retrieval Training (SRT). Here’s how it works. Say you’ve just gotten a new phone number. You would start by writing it down. Then, repeat the number every 15 seconds until you get it right three times. Once you have done that, repeat it every 30 seconds. Then gradually increase the time intervals. Every minute, every five minutes, every 30 minutes, and so on. SRT is great for remembering names, addresses, or any new important information.

Brain Exercises and Games

Simple exercises like reading aloud or handwriting regularly can help boost cognitive function by working different brain areas, such as language, attention, and motor skills.

Common brain games like Sudoku and word puzzles are fantastic for boosting brain power, especially if you enjoy them and they provide the right level of challenge. Learning a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument, picking up a new language, or trying activities like line dancing or improv, can also engage a wide range of brain networks. Over time, these activities can drastically improve your cognitive function.

There are many apps available that offer fun brain games. A couple of our favorites are:

• Impulse – Brain Training: This app offers brain exercises for attention, memory, problem-solving, and math skills.
• Woodoku: A simpler game that’s easy to play on your phone and can still give your brain a workout.

For a different approach, check out the Healthy Minds Program. It is a free app from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Created by Dr. Richie Davidson and his team, this app focuses on mindfulness and meditation but is also excellent for improving attention, a key factor in strengthening memory.

The key to success is finding a brain exercise or game that’s enjoyable and challenging, but not overly difficult. Improving your skills in these games will not only boost your cognitive health but also give you a sense of accomplishment, which can enhance your emotional well-being.

Invite your family and friends to join you! Playing together can make brain exercises even more fun and motivating.

Let’s make brain health a priority, because if you don’t use it, you lose it!

For more tips and resources to support your brain health, visit our Memory Center page today!

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