Stroke and Memory Loss: Tips to Improve Your Memory

One of the most complex processes in the human brain is memory, which involves storing knowledge gained by education or experience to be used later. Memorisation (encoding), retention (storage), and regeneration (recall) are the three phases that make up memory. The loss of nerve cells in the brain is a typical cause of memory loss. Dementia is the term for memory loss that is so severe that it interferes with day-to-day functioning. People suffering may have trouble remembering names or acquiring new skills. They could struggle to locate words or become disoriented in previously familiar areas. Vascular dementia, which results from brain damage after a stroke, is a type of dementia that develops after a stroke and for which no other cause can be identified. Vascular dementia can result from several small strokes as well as major strokes. Age, past memory issues, a history of multiple strokes, or a stroke that occurs in the left side of the brain. Slow thinking and movement, inattention, and difficulty doing basic tasks are signs of vascular dementia and memory loss. After a stroke, more visible post-stroke problems, including paralysis, blindness, or sadness, might mask dementia symptoms.

Tips to Cope:

1. Prepare a daily routine- it helps to establish a habit which leads to less confusion.

Perform all the tasks at the same time every day.
Use visual cues to remind you of the tasks.
Keep all the daily used objects in the same spot.

2. Use external assistance to improve memory.

Digital planners: They are used to keep track of all the day-to-day events.
Reminders: Keep reminders for important tasks or activities.
Sticky notes: Stick notes on walls or areas where on-the-spot attention is required, for example, near a stove or a geyser.
Photographs: Use photographs to remind yourself.
Notepad: Keep a notepad close to jot down important points then and there.

3. Practice repetitions: Repeating names, numbers or tasks to improve cognitive retention power is essential.

Read names and numbers out loud.
Writing one thing many times
Remembering things by linking them to something familiar.

4. Memory techniques: There are two methods, the visual image method and the PQRST method to enhance memory.

The visual image method helps to remember the content by creating a familiar or relatable image.
PQRST stands for Preview, Question, Read, Self-recite, Test.
Preview- get aware of the headings, subheadings or summaries of the content.
Question- turn all the headings into a question form
Read- reading carefully, the entire text is important
Self-Recite- recall what you have just read and say it out loud.
Test- once finished, test yourself.

5. Effective communication: Donâ€™t be shy to ask for help with memory issues.

Tell your near and dear ones to remind you whenever needed.
Be open to saying, "I need help."

6. Consume a healthy brain diet: A diet rich in the following can boost cognitive recovery:-

Antioxidants: green veggies and citrus fruits
Lean proteins: chicken breasts and egg whites
Omega-3 fatty acids: walnuts, salmon and flax seeds

7. Take good sleep: Sleep is important for cognitive recovery. Sleep disturbances can worsen memory issues.

Keep a regular sleep cycle
Keep screens away before sleep
Limit caffeine

8. Physical activity: It is highly important to stay active as exercising helps improve blood flow, reduce stress and enhance cognitive function. Try to:

Walk at least 3 times a week
Gentle stretching
Yoga

Dealing with memory loss can be stressful, but with the right approach, you can walk the right path. The key lies in early intervention, family support and consistency. At MediGence, we provide personalised stroke rehabilitation programs with access to expert neurologists and advanced rehabilitation centres.