As you get older, you may notice a significant change in your ability to remember things. Maybe you easily forget your keys when you step out or fail to pick up that important grocery item on your way home. Poor memory can easily ruin your day and make you less productive as a dad. Of course, it’s normal to forget things once in a while. In fact, nearly 40% of participants in a recent survey considered themselves to be forgetful, but once it starts interfering with your life, that’s a cause for concern. Regardless of your age, the following tips can help sharpen your memory as a father.

1. Avoid habits that negatively affect your memory

Experts have identified some common habits that can make people more forgetful. Multitasking, not getting enough sleep, failing to exercise regularly, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medications are some of the most notable causes of memory decline, regardless of your age. Other factors like stress and mental health issues can also negatively affect your memory. If you’re a hardworking dad with little time to rest, it’s understandable that multitasking, inadequate sleep, and a lack of exercise may be common stays in your life. But it’s important to avoid them because of their negative effect on memory and the mind in general. 

2. Consider over-the-counter memory supplements or medication 

Sometimes, poor memory can be so disruptive that it affects your ability to drive, focus, or complete basic daily tasks. If that’s your case, then consider getting over-the-counter supplements for memory. However, please do not take the step without approval from a health professional. So, visit your doctor first for a thorough examination to be conducted. You can then purchase the right memory-enhancing medication after receiving the green light from your doctor. There are various supplements to choose from such as ginseng, omega-3, magnesium and nootropics such as Piracetam powder, proven to have memory enhancement benefits. 

3 .Say your actions out loud

Another great way to help you remember the smallest things is to say your actions out loud. Are you doing something you need to remember? Talk to yourself as you do it, or say what you’re doing out loud to yourself. This tip is particularly important for things you forget easily. For example, if you’re putting your keys in your back pocket, say it to yourself while you do it. Yes, it sounds crazy, but it’s a proven strategy for easier recollection. 

4. Learn new things

You’re never too old to learn, and studies show that learning new things can support better mental functioning, especially in old age. The learning process challenges the brain and is effective in improving memory. So, start making it a goal to learn something new each year. For example, you can pick up a new language, which is proven to help arrest a cognitive decline. You can also learn new hobbies in healthy intervals or consider furthering your education. If you only have a university degree, for example, consider enrolling for a Master’s. The world has limitless learning opportunities, and your brain is more than capable of handling the extra information.