If you’re thinking, “Oh boy, that sounds like me!” it might be time to prioritize sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and discuss any concerning memory issues with your healthcare provider.
More often than not, forgetfulness isn’t a sign of looming dementia; it’s simply the result of juggling a hectic life filled with work, children, chores, and endless errands. Honestly, it’s a miracle you haven’t considered hiring a personal assistant to help you manage everything!
If your to-do lists are gathering dust and your reminder apps are malfunctioning, don’t fret. Over the years, I’ve compiled a toolkit of clever strategies to combat forgetfulness. Here are some of my top suggestions:
1. Problem: You recognize someone, but they’re a total stranger to you.
You’re at the grocery store, minding your own business in the cereal aisle. Suddenly, a woman waves and greets you, mentioning your child by name and asking about your back pain. You feel certain you know her, but the details escape you. Is she from the school board? A neighbor? You don’t want to embarrass yourself.
Solution: Stay upbeat but non-specific.
Weather talk is a classic go-to. If local conditions are dull, mention a recent hurricane or snowstorm somewhere to keep the conversation flowing. For added safety, refer to everyone as “Friend” or “Pal.” If you’re of a certain age, “Dear” works too. And if you’re feeling quirky, “Champ” or “Buddy” will do just fine.
2. Problem: “Mom, you forgot to pick me up from my lesson. AGAIN.”
Solution: Turn it into a learning moment.
Explain to your child that you were testing their emergency response skills. Ask them what they would have done if you hadn’t shown up. Toss in some fun questions like, “How fast can you run from a pack of rabid dogs?” and “What’s your plan if you can’t find a can opener?” Celebrate their “success” with ice cream afterward!
3. Problem: You keep losing your keys or phone.
Solution: Embrace a new lifestyle.
Standard advice suggests creating a designated spot for your keys and phone. But let’s be real—at this point in life, adopting such habits may feel impossible. Why not go off the grid instead? Embrace a bohemian lifestyle, grow your hair out, and start listening to indie folk music. Just remember to learn how to start your car without a key!
4. Problem: “Where on earth did I park?”
Solution: Drive a uniquely identifiable vehicle.
There’s nothing like a beat-up 1991 Volvo station wagon to deter others from parking near you. You’ll always find your car because nobody else wants to be associated with it! Slap on a bumper sticker for added flair. If you reside in a trendy area, consider a vintage car that stands out even more.
5. Problem: “Happy belated birthday… or was it Mother’s Day?”
Solution: Apologize sincerely.
If you forget a special occasion, any excuse will likely come off as weak. Instead, learn to express your remorse in multiple languages and offer to treat them to something nice, like a movie night featuring their favorite films. Or, you could simply volunteer to clean the house. Groveling and a sincere “What can I do to make this right?” can work wonders in mending fences.
This article was originally published on May 6, 2015.
Want more insights? Check out our other blog posts, like this one about home insemination kits at Make a Mom. For expert advice on parenting, visit Intracervical Insemination. And if you’re curious about the IVF process, Parents offers valuable information.
Summary
If you’re experiencing memory issues, it might just be the result of a busy life rather than something more serious. Utilize these fun strategies to manage forgetfulness and stay organized, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when needed.