Memory
This may just be a gradual deterioration associated with ageing but can also be associated with stress, poor sleep, infection, certain medications, dementia and excessive consumption or withdrawal from drugs or alcohol.
There is good evidence that there are things you can do to reduce your risk of dementia as you get older. This includes adopting a healthy lifestyle:
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eat a balanced diet,
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maintain a healthy weight,
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be physically active,
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stop smoking,
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and drink alcohol within recommended limits.
It also includes staying mentally and socially active, getting your hearing tested, and treating depression.
If your memory issues are minor, you may find that keeping your brain active with puzzles and games or using visual prompts and lists as reminders can help. If memory problems are severe they can impair judgement, reasoning and insight which can then result in risk taking behaviour which may lead to falls. The ability to recognise and interpret sight, sound and touch may also be affected which can lead to communication and movement difficulties. If you or your friends and family have noticed a change in your memory or behaviour, it is important that you discuss this with your GP or other health professional.
For further information follow the links below:
How Are You Cambridgeshire and Peterborough?: Local Activities that are good for wellbeing
Healthy You: Information and support to make lifestyle changes
NHS Health Checks: Spot early signs of some health conditions