Problems with memory can manifest in many ways—problems remembering, speaking, thinking or processing information. For decades, problems with memory were treated with a few different classes of medications. Today, we understand that the complexity associated with memory problems cannot be managed with a simple medication. Everything we eat, do, hear and see can affect the areas of our brains that control memory. At The Memory Center, in Englewood, New Jersey, we pride ourselves on our ability to challenge assumptions and implement treatment in an open-minded, novel way. We are experts in combining medical therapy with a myriad of other therapeutic modalities in a fully personalized manner.

We know that what we eat affects us. Our food selection affects our energy, mood, sleep and even memory. Research has shown that there are foods that can maximize memory function. Optimizing our dietary fats and focusing on plant foods, rich in nutrients that are good for brain health, could significantly improve our memories. We are experts in the dietary choices that can optimize your
memory.

Music has a strong emotional power. Think of your favorite song—even the thought alone can transport you to a different place. The long-term memories associated with music are deeply engrained in a person’s brain. When a person has memory problems, there are areas in the brain that are not working well. Music has been shown to act as a bridge between these areas, and improve cognitive function. We place a strong emphasis on combining music therapy with other treatment options for problems with memory.

Memory problems can sometimes lead to problems sleeping. This occurs because the body’s biological clock, or circadian rhythm, can become disrupted. Light therapy, of which there are many kinds, has been shown in studies to regulate and restore the body’s natural clock. Light therapy has been shown to improve sleep and mood and decrease anxiety and wandering. We offer multiple types of light therapy in conjunction with other treatment options.

When a person has problems with memory, it is often because the parts of the brain that create and store memories are affected. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, uses electromagnetic pulses to activate the affected brain areas in a painless, quick and noninvasive way. People we have treated with TMS have shown remarkable improvements in memory, mood and overall quality of life.

At the Memory Center, we understand the complexity of memory problems. Of course, there are medications that are commonly used to address memory problems. However, medicine alone is rarely, if ever, the only solution. We fully comprehend the challenges that come with having problems with memory, or caring for someone with memory problems. We look to help people in any and every way possible, including by guiding lifestyle habits such as sleep and diet. We incorporate the use of music, light therapy and noninvasive methods such as TMS. We think outside the box, because life’s problems often don’t have simple solutions. Call us at 201-947-4777, or visit MemoryCenter.Org for more information.

Dr. Jeff Shenfeld is the director of the Memory Center of Englewood.