As we get older, it can become harder to remember things, especially names and where you put things. This is a part of normal aging, and there are tricks you can use to help.

REMEMBERING NEW NAMES
Meeting new people and remembering their names can be tough. Here are a few tips:

• Repeat the name. When you first meet someone, say their name out loud a few times in the conversation. For example, “Nice to meet you, John. So, John, do you have any children?”
• Connect: Try to connect the person’s name with something or someone you already know. For example, if you meet someone names Lily, you can think of the flower lily and imagine that person holding a lily flower. Or, if you meet someone named John, you can think of your cousin named John and imagine the two of them shaking hands.
• Rhyme: Make a rhyme with their name. For example, if you meet someone named Lily, you could think, “Lily is very silly.”
• Write it down: if possible, jot their name in a notebook or on your phone soon after meeting them. Writing it down can help reinforce your memory.

REMEMBERING WHERE YOU PUT THINGS
It’s common to forget where you put your keys, glasses, or phone. Here are a few tips:

• Create Routines: Doing things in the same way and at the same time every day can help you remember. For example, always putting your keys in the same place when you come home can make them easier to find later.
• Use Technology: put a tracking device, like an Apple AirTag or Tile, on your important items, like your keys, purse, or wallet.

OTHER NEW INFORMATION
Here are some more tricks you can use to remember things:

• Chunking: break down big pieces of information into smaller chunks. For example, if you have to remember 123456789, you can break it into chunks, like 123-456-789.
• Sing it: Turn the information into a song. It’s easier to remember lyrics to a song.
• Teach Someone Else: Explain it to someone else. Teaching forces you to understand and remember the details better.
• Make Lists: Writing lists for shopping or tasks can make it easier to remember everything. Crossing items off as you go can help you keep track and feel like you are getting things done too!
• Set Alarms & Reminders: Setting alarms and reminders on your phone or other device can help you remember to do things, like take medicine or go to an appointment or event.

Everyone forgets things sometimes.  If you or someone who loves you is worried about your memory, let your doctor know. There are many causes of memory problems, and there may be medications or other treatments that can help.