Memory Recall - The Key to Happiness in Old Age!
Welcome to our new blog series on the fascinating and expansive field of memory recall. Memory is arguably the single most important skill we have as it defines our sense of self and who we are.
Every one of us is exposed to a unique world full of sensory information starting from those first moments at birth. As we get older in years, some of our conjured up images from childhood memories might include highly emotional experiences, such as that very first stolen kiss on a movie date, ecstatic family reunions after years of study abroad, or simply reminiscing on inhaling that first deep breath of seawater aroma at an ocean side resort.
Most of us would likely agree that we’d love to keep those fondest memories not just close to our hearts as we age, but also vividly alive in our minds to generously share and enjoy with those closest to us. For it is in these treasured memories, however simple they may be, where we find the magical qualities giving richer meaning and vibrancy to the narrative of our individual life stories. Few, if any, will deny that our sense of well-being in old age is greatly impacted by how effective our memory recall is. So if indeed we are what we remember, what happens if our memories are lost to the fog of dementia or old age?
Sadly, for the majority of Canadians who are seeing record long, life expectancies, the odds of developing a mental health related condition is becoming an ever-greater reality. According to research from the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada 1.4 million Canadians are projected to be impacted by dementia by 2031. This figure is more than double the current number of 747,000 Canadians that are now living with a life-changing, dementia-related condition.
Fortunately, there are many pro-active steps we can take to either slow down or even reverse the possible progression of a dementia type diagnosis.
To help get us started, we’ll begin with the basics and review what memory is all about in more scientific detail. It is hoped that by developing a better understanding and visual imaging of the neurological processes involved in memory formation, development and retention, it will help us take more proactive steps in keeping our mental acuity sharp for the exciting golden years ahead.
Our weekly blog series will touch upon the following topics:
- memory types
- the basics of memory formation
- memory and stress
- how to improve your memory
We look forward to having you join us over the next few weeks as we explore the inner workings of the brain’s memory banks and learn how to make best use of that knowledge for daily life.
DynamicBrain Inc. is the Canadian Partner of Posit Science Corporation providing brain fitness program, BrainHQ in English and French.