Old age doesn't mean having to say 'I forgot'

Dr. Carolyn Adams-Price, who does research in memory, creativity, and aging, says that some memory loss as you age is normal. "Forgetting a name, for instance, is not generally a sign of senility," she says. "Older people usually have a harder time remembering names; but they also can put a name with a face."

Having difficulty with names as you grow older may be a result of acquiring so many names over the years, she suggests. "To remember new names, older people may have to drop old names out of their memories."

To put your mind at rest about your memory, Adams-Price suggests that there are some memory facts that are helpful to know. The good news is that older people actually tend to be less absent-minded than their younger counterparts. "Older people are less likely to forget to do things," she said. "They remember appointments; they remember medications."

Older folks also may be happy to know there are ways to improve memory. "Practice helps. People should remember that memory takes effort. The more effort you exert, the more likely you are to remember." Some memory tips Adams-Price suggests:

• To remember names, make associations. "As an example, my name is Price. You can visualize a price tag over my head."
• To remember long lists such as grocery lists, visualize the items on your list dancing in your living room.
• You may want to choose recreations that improve memory. Playing bridge, for instance, is more beneficial than playing bingo. Some computer games are helpful for memory because they give practice and feedback.
• At times, artificial memory aids may be useful. When you leave your car in a parking garage, you may want to write down the exact location. You may want to consider using lists and calendars. Many older people find using a pill organizer is helpful.
• Know when to worry. The people who tend to worry about their memories don't usually have an organically caused problem, she points out. "They're more often depressed. These folks can benefit from taking obvious steps to improve memory and from seeking counseling for depression." Family members should be concerned, however, if a loved one suddenly cannot remember how to perform routine tasks, such as brewing a pot of tea.
• Recognize that some memory problems may have physical causes. "If someone is fine one day and can remember nothing the next, it may signal a physical illness," Adams-Price explained. "Fever often can cause this kind of behavior."