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Tips

Healthy Aging Tips

Everyday tools to support memory and attention as you age, including the WRAP memory trick.

Cartoon brain giving a thumbs up.

Quick help: think WRAP

  1. Write the information
  2. Repeat the information
  3. Associate (connect) the information with something you already know
  4. Picture the information in your head

Let’s talk about it

Age-related changes most commonly include changes in memory and changes in attention:

  • Memory: word finding, recall, and short- and long-term information
  • Attention: thinking, multitasking and understanding

Each person’s aging process is unique.

Helpful outside tools

  • Use calendars
  • Use timers and alarms
  • Write down what you need to remember
  • Make lists (for example, grocery lists, chore lists and to-do lists)

Tools in your mind

  • Repeat information you hear or read.
  • Match information with something you already remember to do. For example, link taking your medicine to brushing your teeth.
  • Picture the item or action you need to remember. You can also use pictures of the item or action to help you remember.
  • Mnemonics: a word or phrase that links to the letters or words of what you need to remember (for example, ROY G. BIV to remember the colors of the rainbow).

Ways to help attention

  • Reduce distractions
  • Avoid crowded or noisy areas
  • Use a calendar to write important information down
  • Label and organize specific items
  • Schedule breaks during your day (mental and physical)
  • Set a timer when cooking or doing laundry
  • Break down tasks into smaller steps
Cartoon brain with a thought bubble, resting a finger on its chin as if thinking.
An older man sitting at a table writing on a piece of paper.
Write down what you need to remember.
An older woman with a thought bubble above her head, resting a finger on her chin as if trying to remember.