Memory Strategy List

Memory Strategy List Developed

Organising the environment

The aim is to arrange your surroundings to reduce the demand on your memory.

• Using a notepad system beside the phone
• Using a large notice board and making plans
• Having a special place to keep objects which tend to go missing
• Labeling or colour-coding cupboards as a reminder of where things are kept
• Tying objects to places e.g. a pen to the phone or a key to a belt.

Using memory aids

• Mobile phone: For alerts of appointment times, work start times
• A diary for storing and planning
• Notebooks of all sizes for various places
• Lists and checklists
• Alarm clock, wristwatch alarm and timer
• Calendar
• Wall chart
• Tape recorder or dictaphone
• Electronic organiser
• Pill reminder box
• Post-it notes: keep these next to the phone.
• A memory book containing historical events, personal experiences and names.

Activities that can improve my memory

Factors such as anxiety, stress, and fatigue can all have serious effects on concentration and memory. The following activities have benefits on a person’s emotional and physical well-being will most likely have benefits for their mental alertness and ability to process information.

• Sufficient restful sleep
• Regular exercise
• Relaxation and stress-reduction strategies
• Following prescribed medication guidelines and medical advice
• Avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs.

Getting to Work on Time

• Set an alarm clock up with the correct time the night before.
• Make a checklist of steps needed to get ready for work each day, This may include

• Getting dressed
  • Having breakfast
  • Brushing my teeth
  • Making my lunch (which could be completed the night before)
  • Have my keys, phone and wallet at the door
  • Have the address for location of work ready

At work:

• Set up the work place that suits your learning style
• Have a bag with equipment you may need read: pen, note pad, calculator
• Work in an areas that has limited visual distractions
• Perform only one task at a time
• Repeat directions out loud
• Develop a daily planner and schedule of things I need to complete
• Break down bigger activities into smaller manageable tasks
• It helps to “stop and think” before making a decision
• Use watches, timers to help keep track of time