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Memory strategies
To lock in a
memory
Use many
senses - visual, auditory,
kinesthetic
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talk to yourself,
repeat key info aloud |
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mentally "run-through"
physical actions (motor cues) |
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diagram or visualize picture |
| Smell
is a potent wizard that transports us across thousands of miles and all the
years we have lived. Helen Keller |
Link the unknown with the known
- the more associations you can make, the better you will
remember and recall (Example: Italy is shaped like a boot.)
Focus on one thing at a time
Work at remembering
Example: Before leaving a
parking lot, deliberately fix the location of your car in your mind.
Use mnemonic devices -
organize by categories, rhymes,
or location (For instance, create five unusual images and place one in each room of your
house.)
Visualize - have fun with an image by adding color and
imagining object from different angles
Chunk - break into shorter
bunches
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Memory prefers the
concrete, and favors the picture over the thousand
words. Rebecca Rupp, Committed
to Memory
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To
recall a memory
Make a start -
your memory will be prodded
when you notice it half-done.
Jog your memory
Example: Return to the location where
the memory was formed or focus on a single bit of the subject so it can bring back the entire
memory.
Relax -
turn your attention elsewhere and
missing info will often pop up in mind.
Form a habit
Example: For taking medicine,
place the pill container next to your coffee cup or toothbrush.
Keep a journal
- especially of special
times, important events, travels, dreams, etc.
Keep and display physical
tokens and mementos (photos, postcards, etc.) to remind you of wonderful
experiences.
Change them frequently so they don't lose power.
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God gave us memory so
that we might have roses in December. J. M. Barrie,
author of Peter Pan
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Organize -
have a place for everything and keep
everything in its place. (Example: Keep
a basket by front door to
hold keys, etc.; fill a tote bag with things you will need for a day's
activities.)
Use external memory aids
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to do lists, highlighters,
planning calendar, appointment books, yellow sticky note in cereal bowl, on pc, suit
on chair near door, etc. (Caution: One list or calendar is
useful, but multiples only create confusion.)
Develop a routine
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and stick to it.
Use the buddy system Do you have a relative or
a good friend who can help you remember important things?
Perhaps you can return the favor. |
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Products
that help you B... |
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B organized
with
memory joggers, medication reminders, timers &
watches
B
able
with assistive technology,
disability & daily living aids
B
fit with exercise balls, Therabands,
Airex mats, hand exercisers
B
well with organic products
& natural therapies
B
inspired
with books, CDs, software,
games, puzzles, toys
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