Ask the Experts Blog

We’ve all been there – you walk into a room to grab something, but when you get there, you can’t remember what it was. As we age, forgetting what you’re looking for or where you left your keys might make you concerned. Should you be worried?

“Everybody forgets things – nobody’s memory is perfect,” said Neuropsychologist Christopher Contardo, PhD, ABPP. “However, it’s a good idea to have a neuropsychological evaluation if you’re starting to struggle with things that you do every day, such as remembering to take your medication, managing things in your house, or how to pay your bills.”

During a neuropsychological evaluation, Dr. Contardo talks to patients and their families about the concerns they may have about their memory and how it is affecting their everyday living. Written tests help assess skills such as remembering words and complex instructions. “People are often worried about their memory for the wrong reasons,” Dr. Contardo explained. “A lot of people think they have memory problems when they don’t. A neuropsychological evaluation is a good way to understand the strengths and weaknesses you may have and how those may appear in day-to-day life and in the future.”

The Mind-Body Connection

While illnesses and injuries such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and head trauma can cause memory problems, many common health issues can, too. “High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sleep apnea, and breathing problems can impact the health of your brain,” Dr. Contardo said.

“We call these cerebrovascular risk factors, and they are common reasons why people experience memory problems as they get older. These risk factors can make it seem like the aging process of the brain is on fast-forward.”

Brain Power – Can You Stack the Deck in Your Favor?

Recent studies suggest that keeping your brain and body active can help keep your brain healthier. Dr. Contardo recommends the following tips for better brain health
at any age:

• Engage in challenging mental tasks (watching TV doesn’t count!), reading, and favorite hobbies
• Be social. Interacting with others can help keep your mind fit
• Volunteer – it may boost the parts of your brain needed for cognitive function
• Exercise – 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking) per week is recommended. Sound like a lot? Break it into 10-minute blocks, three times a day, five days a week
• Eat nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods
• Get a healthy dose of good sleep each night