Symptom Series: Cognitive dysfunction

Exercise may benefit people differently. For people with MS, it may also help with walking ability, fatigue, and cognitive function. Work with your healthcare provider to find which forms of exercise best fit your routine and capability, such as a light cycle, yoga, treadmill walking, or gardening. Everybody’s symptoms are different, try to define your limits and work within them. Get started with fitness and exercise.

During any activity that requires you to remember something—school, work, healthcare provider appointments—take notes. Establish a system that works for you, whether it’s keeping a small notebook handy or taking notes on your phone. Do your best to keep your information organized and located in one spot that you can conveniently return to. Try dividing your information into smaller sections, and take the time to re-read your notes to help retain the information.

Seriously! Try out a memory game or a puzzle. Brain games are a fun way to help keep your mind active and focus on memory, problem-solving, and other brain skills.

If you find yourself struggling to keep your focus, start by asking yourself what’s distracting you. Is it something you see? Something you hear? If it’s a visual distraction, start by removing unnecessary clutter from the room you’re working in. If you are distracted by noise, try to eliminate extra sound by turning off the TV or music. You could also try wearing headphones or earplugs to reduce noise.

Having a routine may help prevent you from forgetting anything important. By keeping your schedule with your notes, you can immediately mark down any important events to keep track of. Otherwise, having a consistent routine will help you stay on track throughout your day with fewer distractions.