This might go overlooked but at least 40% of those over 65 years of age, at some point, will experience memory loss in some form. This is a natural part of aging for many people and for everyone, this type of experience will present differently and for some, not at all. Only 1% of that group will actually progress to dementia but keep in mind, this is on a yearly basis.
There are different medications that can help with conditions like Alzheimer’s but many seniors want to opt for more natural methods of healing, prevention, and memory maintenance as a better alternative. Memory-related conditions can be difficult and debilitating, especially for seniors. They can make it difficult to remember important details, stay focused, and complete daily tasks.
We’re going to explore a few natural options that seniors can incorporate into their life to enhance memory improvement and combat challenges caused by memory-related conditions.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is an herb that has been used for centuries for a variety of things but cognitive functioning is a primary reason. Specifically, it’s often used for those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. It is believed to work by increasing blood flow to the brain, which can help to enhance memory and concentration.
Ginkgo Biloba is available in capsule form and can be taken daily to improve memory and overall brain health. You can also get this herb in liquid form which is a great way to add it to drinks or food to easily incorporate it into your diet.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Now, what’s so great about turmeric for seniors is that it can help with a variety of things. From relieving joint pain and improving cognitive functioning to helping with fighting infections, this spice has a wide range of capabilities. If you want to incorporate it into your diet, seniors can easily find it in capsules as well as powder and it would be a good idea to stick between 500 and 1,000mg.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are important for brain health. They can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, as well as in supplements for faster and more efficient intake. Because of how easy it is to obtain these fatty acids, seniors in Florida would have no problem finding fresh sources to use for incorporation into their diet.
Omega-3s have been shown to improve memory and alleviate symptoms of depression. What many seniors don’t realize is that these acids are good for more than just brain health. They help with preventing the formation of blood clots as well.
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is an herb that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory. This herb can help boost immune function, reduces anxiety and stress, and improves attention span and learning abilities. Seniors are often at a higher risk for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and bacopa monnieri has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, protecting against oxidative stress and reducing inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to these diseases.
Green Tea
Green tea contains a compound called EGCG, which has been shown to have neuroprotective properties like some of the other unique options that we’ve discussed. This compound also has a very potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect that can be useful to seniors. It can help to protect the brain from memory-related conditions and drinking green tea daily can help to improve cognitive functioning while reducing the risk of memory-related diseases.
A certain molecule that can be found in green tea has the ability to break down tau tangles in Alzheimer’s brain tissue. This actually reveals other molecules that could be effective in stopping dementia
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea is an herb that has been used in traditional Chinese and Russian medicine for centuries to improve cognitive function just like some of the other solutions we’ve discussed. This herb presents with an anti-fatigue effect which is great for mental health and maintenance.
Seniors can also look forward to the fact that it helps with boosting energy levels and combating depression. This is especially important considering that things like depression, for example, are often linked to trouble with memory.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a type of mushroom that can help to protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation in the brain. While you might not immediately think of consuming mushrooms to help with memory loss, seniors should know that this type in particular has been found to protect against dementia. Not only that, it could help with nerve damage repair and even reduce depression and anxiety. Lion’s Mane mushroom can easily be consumed through a mushroom complex supplement and that capsule can be taken in capsule form or broken and put into food and drinks.
Take Control of Your Health as a Senior
Memory-related conditions can be frustrating for anyone, especially seniors. Now, we’re more familiar with some of the natural ways that you can use to enhance your health and improve your memory without relying on medication. These options are all affordable and easily attainable. What’s even better for seniors is that there is significantly less worry of overdosing on medication or misusing medication considering that they are natural products.
If you want to improve and protect your memory as a senior, start by trying one of these natural memory-enhancing herbs.
