How to manage your memory problems after a brain injury

Collaborative Post | For many people, dealing with memory issues is a natural part of growing older. One of the more classic signs of dementia, memory issues is often seen as harmless and only for the elderly.

Severe brain trauma can also lead to memory issues for anyone of any age. Although these can be managed with specific strategies and support, the effects can be long-reaching. Making a brain injury claim is a good way to regain some financial stability which will allow you to recover from your injury and adjust to a new way of living. Here are some simple ways to help maintain your memory as much as possible.

Photo by Marissa Grootes on Unsplash

Adapt your environment

​If you are someone who spends the majority of your time at home, then you will need to adapt your home environment to suit your needs.

Keeping notepads and pens near your landline, for example, is a small way to help you remember what telephone calls were about. This is especially helpful if you are dealing with multiple medical personnel for different injuries.

If you struggle to remember which room is which in your home, try adding labels to your doors to give yourself a hint. You could also attach a pinboard to each door and note where important items are to help guide you around.

External memory aids

Smartphones are great memory aids, and chances are you already have one. You can use the in-built calendar to remember important dates and appointments.

There are a whole host of apps which are designed to help with organisation and memory. Some digital planners have features for you to set up daily chores lists with reminders. This will help to keep your life in order as well as your home.

Focus on your general wellbeing

Your overall well-being is an important factor for your memory. If you are feeling low, you may find it harder than normal to recall information.

Make sure you lean on your support network when you need to. Confiding in loved ones and sharing your issues will let them help. They may even suggest some ideas that will help.

Be as active as possible as well. Sometimes with a brain injury mobility can be limited. This does not mean you have to be inactive, however. This is the perfect opportunity to try out some new sports.

Set a routine

Try to stick to a routine as much as possible. Routines reduce the demand on your memory as you don’t need to keep thinking about what to do next. This may take a bit of time to get ingrained in your brain, so use written and spoken reminders to keep the plan for your day fresh.
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Try writing out your daily plan the night before and sticking it somewhere you will see it regularly. This could be by the TV or on the fridge door.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.