Holiday Nostalgia:
Enhancing Memory through Relationship
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BY DONESA WALKER
emories...light the corners of my mind” say the words to the old song “The Way We Were.” This is exactly the key to boosting memory. Memories really do light the corners of our brain by causing synaptic fire through the neurons. There is no time like the holidays to gather with friends and family and relive the times past. It is always entertaining to see who remembers what part of the event and who has colored those memories with rose colored glasses into nostalgia. After almost two years of being separated from family, many will choose to gather again this year and this connection can strengthen what has eroded.
Singing songs, playing games, sharing memories…all of these stimulate the brain to grey which is what we want our brain to do to grow and stay active. An amazing way to boost memory over the holiday season and help a loved one recall is to play games and activities that stimulate memory and work on recall together. Being deliberate about playing games that perhaps recall parts of life or allow one to explore new places is a great way to build/connect that grey matter. Playing card games can improve short-term memory as well as long-term memory.
Social connection is an important part of the brain as it stimulates the brain to make more connections and to ignite certain areas, much like learning a new language does. It is especially important for the aging brain. A recent study* found that social connections boosted the grey matter in the brain giving it a better microstructure. These social connections like experiences are the roadmap to memory building. Study after study has proven that the key to a healthy brain is an active brain and this includes socializing and getting out.
Ǫ BRIDGE. The best card games are those that demand memory, strategy and attentiveness. Bridge is one such game. It teaches logic, reasoning, quick thinking, patience, concentration and partnership skills. Bridge also involves at least 4 people so there is a valuable social component to the game as well.
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DECEMBER 2021
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There are cards games of varying difficulty levels to choose from:
Ǫ GO FISH. Card games don’t have to be as complex as bridge to help with mental acuity. Even simple card games like Go Fish help exercise the brain.
