Barbara J. Hamby

Memory

Today I had a memory test. I would recommend that anyone my age take such a test to establish a baseline for future reference if the opportunity is available. For slightly less than an hour I answered questions for a social worker in the local clinic of my health care provider. In an atmosphere that felt very comfortable, she took notes, and then told me my memory is normal for my age and that was very reassuring. We hear so much about dementia these days, that when we forget names or words or where the keys are, it’s easy to start worrying.

The social worker also gave me suggestions about little tricks to help my brain remember, such as marking an X each day on the calendar and reading aloud any appointments for the next day so that they won’t be overlooked. She also had some suggestions for dealing with the stress that can trigger memory failure. I feel more optimistic after that session than I have for awhile.

I think I’m getting over whatever ailment has been plaguing me this week, so I should be able to go back to the pool tomorrow. I need to move more. I feel the lack of exercise.

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