Nobody’s memory is perfect! Even people without MS occasionally have memory lapses and confusion. Stress, anxiety and extreme tiredness can all cause cognitive difficulties. Avoid compounding the problem. Get enough rest, eat properly and regularly, make time for exercise and manage stress in a positive way.
Organization is the key to making the most of your memory. General tips for keeping organized include the following:
- Use a daily diary or notebook and learn to use it consistently as your "Information Central." Set up sections for important appointments, to-do’s, phone numbers, driving directions, shopping lists and any other things you need to remember. Get rid of all those little scrap pieces of paper. You’ll feel a sense of satisfaction as you cross things off your to-do list.
- Consider getting a smartphone. There are many types of smartphones on the market, so choose the best option (be it minimalistic or feature-packed) that fits into your lifestyle. Most apps, whether they are planning-related or not, can send you push notification reminders to keep you on track.
- Set up a family calendar on your refrigerator at home to keep track of everyone’s commitments.
- Keep a notepad to log messages from family and friends.
- Organize your home or office environments so that frequently-used items remain in familiar spots. Encourage family members to return borrowed objects to their assigned places.
- Ask people to keep directions simple. Repeat information and write down important points.
- Try to stay calm when you don’t remember something. It happens to everyone!
Many people with MS and memory problems also rely on sticky notes (Post-It is the best-known brand of these). While this may be a useful technique for some people, MS experts think that these sticky notes can cause confusion if they get out of hand or become unstuck. It may be more helpful to carry around a notebook or to use a planner app on your smartphone rather than to have a whole trail of yellow sticky notes.
If the risk of physical and cognitive disability is weighing on your mind, talk to your doctor about it. There are many options available that can help you live better with MS.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2026. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/MS-and-Memory