MSI Press Blog

  Not every forgotten name or misplaced key is a sign of Alzheimer’s. Some memory changes are a normal part of aging. Understanding the difference can prevent a great deal of unnecessary worry. Normal Memory Changes Healthy aging may include: Occasionally forgetting names but remembering them later Misplacing items now and then Taking longer to learn new information Sometimes forgetting why you entered a room These changes happen because the brain processes information more slowly with age , not because it is failing. When It May Be More Serious Memory changes may indicate dementia when they: Interfere with daily life Become progressively worse Make it difficult to perform familiar tasks Cause confusion about time, place, or identity For example, forgetting an appointment is normal. Forgetting what an appointment is or why it matters is different. A Helpful Rule of Thumb Many neurologists suggest this simple distinction: Normal aging: You forget where yo...

  I call it “cheating,” but really it’s ninja brainwork. The grocery list becomes a game: Rhymes : “Beans and greens, don’t forget the means” → beans, greens, rice. Stories : The cat drags a loaf of bread while juggling apples → bread, apples, cleaning supplies. Journeys : Milk waits at the top of the stairs, carrots line the hallway, tea sits at the table. Chunks : Produce in one hand, dairy in the other, pantry items balanced like weights. Every list is a kata — rhythm, imagery, and recall. My brain stays limber, my memory sharp. The dojo isn’t just the kitchen or the stairwell; it’s the mind itself. Visual created with AI; text AI used at times in editing. Grandma’s Ninja Training Diary  is the inspiring true story of a septuagenarian grandmother who dared to dream big—by training for  American Ninja Warrior . Teaming up with her coach and trainer, she embarks on a three-year journey to build strength, resilience, flexibility, balance, and endurance—starting f...

  Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #27 I Just Forgot!   If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear. ~Winnie the Pooh   Do you find that when you ask your child to do more than one thing at a time, the task may only get partially done or not done at all? Perhaps it is less an attitude problem than you might be tempted to think. Children need practice building their memory and multi-tasking skills. One way to improve your child's memory is by asking him to do a series of tasks. Use the words "first," "then," "next," and "finally" or number them 1, 2, 3, 4. Give him directions such as "First, go get your book bag. Second, put on your shoes and, third, wait by the door for me.” It may be helpful to have a younger child repeat the dire...