There’s a new strategy to slow down the loss of memory and prevent dementia. This revolves around brain plasticity and memory, so what’s the correlating factor between these two things? A new study suggests brain plasticity in early dementia may be a cause for memory loss but that it can improve the function of other parts of the brain as well.
Learn more about the research and how you may be able to prevent dementia or delay the progression of the disease.
What Happens in the Brain
The hippocampus is the part of the brain that forms memories, in which dementia is thought to begin. If large amounts of proteins build up it can lead to amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. A buildup of these materials can cause healthy brain cells to lose function and die. That’s where brain plasticity comes in, giving us hope.
What is Brain Plasticity
Brain plasticity plays a big part in the way the brain can change and rebuild itself. The ability of the brain to change how it functions can improve the damage done to your working memory.
- The lower brain plasticity in early dementia may be why there is a loss in working memory as the disease progresses.
- Strong plasticity can improve the function of other parts of your brain, which will slow the progression of and/or prevent dementia.
How to Strengthen your Memory
Keep your brain strong by challenging it often. Improve your memory and prevent dementia by following these tips:
Have Strong Relationships
Close relationships with healthy socialization can improve the brain and create a better memory with age. Relationships cause you to regularly exercise your brain by listening to the other person and thinking how to respond. Also, it forces the brain to focus and causes mental stimulation.
Tips for Maintaining Relationships:
Make an effort in your relationships by calling an old friend or writing a letter. By doing this frequently, your brain will become more efficient at doing so. By improving your relationships, you’re less likely to see memory loss.
Keep Your Memory Active
Challenging yourself with memory problems can improve your abilities. Repeating memory tasks that got gradually harder can result in a stronger working memory. Challenging your brain frequently can help your brain form new connections. Also, maintaining a strong interest or motivation in something has a strong impact on improving memory.
Tips for A Healthy Memory:
Make goals to learn new things, such as a new language. It can even be something as simple as memorizing a new joke.
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.
