Forgotten something? Improving Memory and Recall

As human beings, memory has a great significance to our identities and lives. Living in an age where our access to information is perhaps greater than ever before, our memory can become stunted by the constant stream of information. Researchers also suspect that our abilities to recall information has begun to decline.

But what causes some people to lose their memory while others stay sharp? Genetics play a large role, but so do choices and how we assimilate information.

Memory also plays a large role in how we interpret situations and navigate the world around us. This week we will explore how we can improve our memory, but also how the use of technology is helping us improve accuracy in recall.

How can we use technology to help?

In a world of information overload and multiple devices, it can be easy to view technology as a hindrance rather than a help when trying to improve our memory. However, when used appropriately technology can be incredibly helpful in maintaining focus, organisation and avoiding stress.

An example of this is medical dictation. For doctors this is a crucial part of their practice and one where maintaining a high level of accuracy is vital. The convenience of using a mobile app such as www.wetype.uk/ to create audio files of information creates a seamless process to accurately capture content and outcomes of the consultation.

But how should transcription be used to produce the best results?

To produce dictation to a high standard we recommend dictating as soon as possible and when the information is fresh in your mind. This will ensure the accuracy of the information and minimise the potential for errors.

Our app is a good example of a technology which can make your job easier by taking care of a task for you. Transcription, when used properly, can also help you to avoid common mistakes such as misplaced paper and misinterpreting unclear handwriting.

Most of all, transcription is a great way to keep track of information and increase your focus. Rather than having to recall patients’ information that you may have forgotten, or keep track of loose pieces of paper, transcription enables you to maintain organisation and order.

Tips to improve memory and recall

Memory varies from person to person; it also is impacted by genetics and declines with age. However, certain choices can help to improve our memories and keep us sharp.

• Maintaining a healthy diet: Cholesterol and blood sugar make a large impact on memory and recall. Keeping a healthy and varied diet will help to maintain your memory.

• Keep a mentally active lifestyle: We are living in an age of “mental couch potatoes” bombarded by excess information rather than a lack of information. It is important to be able to cut through the white noise of the constant stream of information that we are exposed to. Being conscious of your lifestyle and keeping it varied can help you to “wake up” your memory!

• Reduce stress: Stress can increase confusion which can wreak havoc on your recall abilities! Avoiding stress can have a positive impact on your memory long-term.

• Make sure that you are getting enough sleep: Sleep plays a critical role in the consolidation of memories. Also, a lack of sleep can impair an individuals’ ability to concentrate.

As a result of the pandemic and associated social restrictions, it is reported that “brain fog” is more common than ever. Whilst most of us will want to forget this period in history it’s never too late to start working on improving memory and recall.

Let us know what you are doing to improving your memory on our socials!