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Memory retention is a vital aspect of cognitive health, especially as a person ages. Dominic O'Brien, a renowned memory champion, has shared insights into maintaining a sharp memory well into one's senior years.

The 66-year-old eight-time world memory champion recently appeared on ITV's "This Morning" to discuss the secrets behind his remarkable memory prowess. Sharing his experience in the World Memory Championships, O'Brien noted the importance of proactive measures in preserving cognitive function as people age.

O'Brien is advocating for a holistic approach to memory maintenance, which includes mental, physical and recreational activities. He suggests engaging in digital games, playing musical instruments and regular exercise as effective strategies. 

O'Brien himself practices Sudoku, WordAll and card memorization to keep his mental faculties sharp. He also pointed out the significance of physical activity, particularly walking and playing musical instruments like the piano and brass instruments, in improving memory function.

The power of daily practice

Highlighting the accessibility of memory exercises, O'Brien recommends dedicating just 10 to 15 minutes per day to cognitive workouts. He said there are cumulative benefits to reap from consistent practice, asserting that even brief daily sessions can yield significant improvements in memory retention. 

O'Brien's disciplined "use it or lose it" approach to memory training reportedly showcases the importance of continuous mental stimulation in preserving cognitive abilities.

Combating dementia through engagement

With dementia emerging as a pressing concern globally, O'Brien highlighted the role of proactive measures in mitigating cognitive decline. He also shared that research suggests that activities such as engaging in memory exercises and playing digital games can lower the risk of dementia. 

By practicing an active lifestyle and prioritizing mental engagement, a person can boost their cognitive resilience and reduce their risk of cognitive impairment.

O'Brien's remarkable journey from a fascination with card games to becoming a Guinness World Record holder exemplifies the transformative power of dedication and discipline. Through his authored works and mnemonic systems like the Dominic System, O'Brien continues to empower people worldwide to unlock the full potential of their memory capabilities.