Mon. 25th Jun. 2018
It seems the world and time are traveling at faster and faster speeds. Even though we think the speed of light is fast, our lives seem to move even more quickly. Trying to keep everything top of mind is impossible even if you do not have memory issues like dementia.
One of the best ways to remember is to use the WRAP strategy.
- W – Write it down. We remember things we write down better than if we only hear or see the information. The brain has an extra memory power when we write things down in addition to hearing and seeing data.
- R – Repetition and routines. We remember the things that we do if we do them in the same way. Things as simple as where you put your keys. How many times are you running around the house trying to find your keys when you are late? Always place the keys in the same place. Also rehearsing before acting can provide an additional level of memory support.
- A – Association. Associate or connect the item with a chain of memory. The association can be visual, hearing or any other sense. For instance, we know that when the sun goes down, we go to sleep. If we keep bright lights on until midnight, our brain may think we need to stay alert, and insomnia occurs. Associations can be as silly as you like. Often silly associations are more effective than routine ones. Easy associations may help make difficult associations more effective.
- P – Picture it. Take a visual picture of the memory item. Just like writing, using different pathways in our brain helps us cement the memories more effectively.
WRAP your mind around your life to help remember. Do not get upset with yourself and assume that you have dementia if you cannot remember. Think about the sensory input you get from every direction all day long. No one can remember everything. Triage, sort or prioritize the exposures that you need to contain as memories. Everything is not important. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, contact me for more information.