09 May Brain Health and Aging: Managing Memory-Related Disorders

As we get older, it’s normal to notice some changes in how we think and remember things. Forgetting where you left your keys or struggling to recall someone’s name happens to everyone now and then.

But for some older adults, memory problems go beyond the usual forgetfulness. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can seriously affect daily life.

The good news is that there are ways to take care of your brain and slow down memory loss. With healthy habits and early support, many people can live well even with memory-related conditions.

What Are Memory-Related Disorders?

Memory-related disorders affect how the brain works. The most common one is Alzheimer’s disease. It causes memory loss that gets worse over time, along with changes in thinking and behavior. Other types include:

• Vascular dementia
• Lewy body dementia

These disorders not only affect memory but can also change mood, behavior, and the ability to make decisions.

What Increases the Risk?

Getting older is the biggest risk factor, but it’s not the only one. Family history, poor heart health, lack of exercise, and even loneliness can increase the chances of memory problems. Fortunately, many of these risk factors can be improved with healthy choices.

Keep Your Body and Brain Active

Exercise isn’t just good for your muscles- it helps your brain too. Walking, swimming, or doing light workouts can boost blood flow to the brain and may help grow new brain cells.

Keeping your mind busy is also important. Reading, playing games, doing puzzles, or learning something new keeps your brain sharp. Even simple things like talking to a friend or trying a new hobby can help.

Eat for Brain Health

What you eat matters. Diets like the Mediterranean or DASH diet are great for the brain. These include lots of:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds
• Fish and lean meats
• Healthy oils like olive oil

These foods have nutrients that protect the brain and may slow memory decline.

Stay Connected and Positive

Staying social is just as important as eating well or exercising. Being around friends and family, joining clubs, or volunteering can boost your mood and help your memory. Feeling lonely or depressed can make memory problems worse, so it’s important to reach out and stay involved in your community.

Get Help Early

If memory problems are affecting daily life, it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis helps people get treatment sooner, which can slow symptoms and improve quality of life. Medicines, therapy, and support programs can all help.

Don’t Forget the Caregivers

Caregivers-whether family or professionals-play a big role in helping those with memory disorders. They offer emotional and physical support.

It’s important they also get help through support groups or training so they don’t feel overwhelmed. Visit the best senior memory care community to learn more about maintaining a healthy brain.

Maintain a Healthy Brain

Memory loss can be scary, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By staying active, eating well, staying connected, and getting medical help early, many people can manage memory-related conditions and keep their independence longer. Brain health is important at every age-and it’s never too late to start taking care of it.

More information:

• Erickson KI, Voss MW, Prakash RS, et al. Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 2011;108(7):3017-3022. doi:10.1073/pnas.1015950108

• National Institute on Aging (NIA). Memory, Forgetfulness, and Aging: What’s Normal and What’s Not? Updated October 23, 2023. Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/memory-forgetfulness-and-aging-whats-normal-and-whats-not

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Last Updated on May 9, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD