DON’T LET BRAIN FOG GET THE BEST OF YOU!

Brain fog is a frequently an embarrassing symptom and can be one of many frustrating aspects of living with severe pain and chronic illness no matter what your age. Symptoms of brain fog can range from mild to severe and vary from day to day, or vary person to person. Confusion, forgetfulness, limited concentration, mixing up words, and short-term memory loss all fall under that irritating and exasperatingly embarrassing umbrella of ‘brain fog.’

Many believe it is due to an inability to sleep well, so many Boomers and Seniors are chronically fatigued. For some people, “fog” may be triggered or exacerbated by lack of nutrition, or dehydration, so for them, eating counteracts mental fogginess. There are other ways to cope of course, here are the top tips:

• Write it down, learn to make lists, or use the apps and calendar on your phone.
• Get outside – sunlight, fresh air and physical exercise help – even if it is just a walk. This will help you sleep at night too.
• Organize yourself by putting your pills/vitamins into medication dispensers and removing clutter around the house or office. Set out your clothes for the next day during the night before.
• Keep items you use regularly in the same place: cell phone, car keys, eyeglasses, hearing aids, etc.
• Pick the best time of day for YOU, to do things that require mental clarity.
• Try some mental exercises like crosswords, sudoku and jigsaw puzzles, or learn a new language.
• Learn to relax – stretching and yoga can help, listen to music or meditate, read a bestselling book.
• Get a hobby – something that excites you and keeps your mind focused.
• Avoid over-stimulation of the senses - lay off cigarettes and alcohol, NOW!
• Clean up your diet – eat healthy, drink water. Good fats for brain health include nuts, avocados, coconut oil, and omega-3-rich foods.
• Power nap, and reexamine your nighttime bedtime routines. Turn off the cell phone one hour before bedtime!

Sadly there isn’t yet a pill that takes away brain fog. Check with your doctor to be sure there is not an underlying medical reason for your brain fog. The goal, no matter what your age, is to minimize its effects. Some of the suggestions we shared here include exercising your body and your mind, as well as eating right and sleeping well. If you or a loved one need assistance with the daily routine, medication and meal management, as well as encouragement to exercise and become more social engaged, Visiting Angels can help with that! Contact Colleen Haggerty to learn more about the benefits of home care and companionship at 561-328-7611. We serve Palm Beach Gardens and the surrounding area: Jupiter, Tequesta, Juno Beach, West Palm Beach, and Wellington.

Till next time!

Irv Seldin, JD

Owner and CEO of Visiting Angels of the Palm Beaches