Memory Strategy #1
Do you forget names?
- When you meet someone for the first time, use his or her name in conversation.
- Think about whether you like the name.
- Think of people you know well who have the same name.
- Associate the name with an image, if one comes to mind. For example, link the name Sandy with the image of a beach.
- Write the person’s name down in your memory notebook, personal organizer, or address book.
Memory Strategy #2
Do you forget where you put things?
- Always put things you use regularly, such keys and eyeglasses, in the same place.
- For other objects, repeat aloud where you put them.
- As you put an object down, make a point of looking at the place where you put it.
- If you still don’t think you’ll remember, write down in your memory notebook or personal organizer where you put the object.
Memory Strategy #3
Do you forget what people tell you?
- Ask someone to repeat what he or she just said.
- Ask the person to speak slowly; that way, you’ll be able to concentrate better.
- Repeat to yourself what the person said and think about its meaning.
- If the information is lengthy or complicated (such as advice from your doctor), use a small cassette recorder or take notes while the person is talking.
Memory Strategy #4
Do you forget appointments?
- Write them down in an appointment book, in a calendar that you look at daily, or in your personal organizer.
- Set an alert on your computer calendar or task list.
- Ask for a reminder call the day before – often companies do this now, as part of their services.
Memory Strategy #5
Do you forget things you must do?
- Write them down in your personal organizer or calendar.
- Write yourself a note and leave it in a place where you’ll see it (for instance, on the kitchen table or by the front door).
- Ask a friend or relative to remind you.
- Leave an object associated with the task you must do out in a prominent place at home. For example, if you want to order tickets to a play, leave a newspaper ad for the play near your telephone.
- If you must do something at a particular time (such as take medicine), set an alarm.
See also the companion article How to Prevent Memory Loss
(This article adapted from ‘Seven Second Memory’ Lamont & Eadie, 2012; & Harvard Medical School Health Report)