Most adults had, or knew of, the game Memory as a child. It's a simple game. You get a number of pieces that you can spread out on the floor or on a table. Each picture has one other matching picture. You mix them up and spread them out and get two flips per turn. The object is to find as many matches as you can. The game seems simple and fun, yet is actually a very useful learning tool for children. What most adults don't realize is that they can use memory games to help them to keep their memory sharp as they grow older, and they may even be able to use memory games to help prevent Alzheimer's disease.

Losing Memory As You Get Older

The older you get, for the most part, the more difficult it is to remember things. This is known as Age Associated Memory Impairment, and it is a natural part of getting older. Some scientists speculate that it is because the neurons in the brain start firing more slowly, while others aren't quite sure why the brain becomes a bit slower but attribute it to the entire body slowing down. Others believe that the brain slows down due to it not being used as much when a person gets older. The one thing that most experts agree on, however, is that the more you use your brain, the less likely you are to suffer memory loss. There have even been some studies to show that people who have the preliminary signs of Alzheimer's are often able to slow the progression of the symptoms by playing memory games.

What Type of Games to Play

While it may seem too simple, playing games that are just like Memory are a great and easy way to get your brain working. Sitting down with children playing the game gives you time with the children and also helps your memory be more active, making it a great idea for two reasons. If you're alone, however, and do not want to feel like you're an idiot by playing a game meant for children, you can play an adult version of Memory.

To play, simply get pieces of paper and write words on them. As with Memory, make sure there are two matching words in each set. Then do as you would with the child's game. Place the words face down, shuffle them up, and try to find the match for each word.

Crossword games are also great memory improvement games to play. These work on your long term memory instead of your short term memory, asking you to recall information that you already know. If you're not a fan of crossword puzzles, purchase ones that have the answers further back in the book, so that you don't need to get too stressed or flustered.

Memory improvement games work well for children, and this has been studied and proven to be true. They also, however, work excellently for adults as well, especially if you continue to do them as you age.