Seniors

• Serious memory loss causes inability to retain new information and "make new memories". The individual may have difficulty remembering conversations, events, appointments and/or where he or she has put things.

• Other early signs of serious memory loss may include getting lost, difficulty handling complex multi-step tasks, impaired problem-solving ability, personality changes, (such as irritability, in-attentiveness, defensiveness, suspiciousness), problems with word-finding and difficulty understanding words or ideas.

If you feel any of this applies to you, perhaps you will want to seek comprehensive assessment and family caregiver support services for memory loss.

Call your local Hospital and request information on the Memory Loss Resource Centers. Ask whether or not there is one near you or something of similar aid.

Exercise Can Boost Memory

Those of us who can never remember where our keys are, are one sweaty step closer to a cure. We already know exercise can help improve memory, but the scientists behind a recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences are the first to show that working out sparks the regrowth of neurons in the part of the brain affected by age-related memory loss. Researchers may be able to use that information to ID the best memory-improving fitness routine. In the meantime, any kind of aerobic activity (such as biking, running, walking or swimming) should help.