No matter what our age we all want to remain mentally sharp and focused. We usually let our memory work without thinking about what we can do to improve it. Putting certain behaviors into action can keep your elderly parents alert, engaged, and happy for many years.

Aging experts recommend staying socially contacted as we age. Building and maintaining relationships while getting involved in community events will enrich a senior’s life and help memory. Make plans to pursue activities like wine tastings, traveling with friends, or volunteering for a cause. Many local colleges offer classes for adults that can allow seniors to continue learning. Having a pet can also add companionship and meaning to the life of your elderly parent.

The AARP compiled a list of memory enhancing tips for older adults. Suggest some of these great tips to your aging parents.

• Get organized by keeping calendars in every room. Calendars help create a mental picture of the day in your head.
• Listen to music. Music can lower stress hormones that inhibit memory.
• Read the news. The memory part of the brain is activated and can give you something to talk about with family and friends. Engaging in conversation can encourage cell growth.
• Join the grandchildren and play video games. Playing video brain teasers make you learn the computer’s interface. The brain gets a double boost of new neural connections along with response time and memory.
• Take an afternoon nap. The ability to concentrate and memory can increase after just 30 minutes.
• Check thyroid levels. The T4 and T3 thyroid hormones help nerve cells make connections. Not having enough of them can keep you from being clear-headed.
• Check medications. Older anti-depressants, anti-diuretics, and antihistamines can block a critical brain chemical from doing its job.
• Redecorate your environment. For those elderly parents who are aging in place, planting new flowers or redecorating a kitchen can alter motor pathways in the brain to encourage new cell growth.

Taking small steps to improve memory will allow your elderly parents to live more rewarding and happier lives. When they stay connected to friends and family, their world is enhanced and lasting memories result.