

A recent study from the University of Waterloo in Canada suggests that making a quick drawing can be an even better way to remember something. The research team conducted experiments on a group of college students, as well as on a group of seniors, to find out which techniques helped them best retain a memory. Participants were asked to either write out a word, listen to information about it, or to draw a picture of the item.

Both the college students and the seniors retained memories best by drawing—and, reports the team, “This effect was especially large in older adults.”

As we grow older, normal changes in our brains can make it harder to remember things. Most of the changes are in areas of the brain that handle words and multi-tasking. But, reports the Waterloo team, “In contrast, we know that visuospatial processing regions of the brain, involved in representing images and pictures, are mostly intact in normal aging.”



Art programs are available for people with every level of skill and ability who wish to participate, no matter their physical or cognitive challenges. Older adults can find art programs through senior living communities, community colleges, lifelong learning classes, senior centers, or the local parks and recreation department. Many art museums today offer outreach programs, some designed for people with memory loss.

Source: IlluminAge AgeWise

 The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. If you have questions about your thinking and memory, consult your physician.