Adjusting to the constant stresses and demands such as working-from-home routines over the past year, has no doubt left many Australians with a fair share of challenging moments and stories to tell. Some slept through their alarms and were late for work calls. Others may have inadvertently shown up to Zoom meetings in their pyjamas. And some may have even forgotten to turn off computer microphones before accidentally blurting out something inappropriate.
In light of this, new research commissioned by integrative healthcare brand Flordis KeenMind®, has shown that if you felt like you lost memory and concentration in recent times, you certainly weren’t alone. Key findings have revealed that:1
• A third (34%) of Australians experienced a negative change in their ability to remember things
and concentrate over the last year.
• 71% of people who experienced memory loss said they haven’t done anything about it.
• 29% of people who saw a negative impact to their concentration and memory said that this
affected them on a professional level.
• More than one in three Australians (35%) who said they felt more forgetful, said this has caused
them to feel concerned about their memory and ability to concentrate, both now and into the
future.
Examining the findings further, Australians in their late 30’s and 40s were least likely to seek help to improve their memory and concentration, despite the ongoing burden placed on many aspects of their lives.
When this age group were asked to cite ways in which lack of concentration and memory impacted them, more than a third (37%) said they felt they couldn’t remember important details at work, a fifth (18%) said they often lost important items such as their phone and keys, and 21% said they find themselves forgetting people’s names.
The Flordis KeenMind® research goes on to reveal further that the personal impacts of loss of concentration and memory have been profound for Australians in their prime, with nearly a third (28%) stating that this will impact them in the future. This concern was more prevalent among men.1 Nearly a quarter (22%) of this Gen X demographic (34–49-year old’s) went on to say that they felt embarrassed by these challenges and didn’t trust themselves as much as they used to.1 Women were more likely to demonstrate embarrassment when forgetting things, with 36% of females saying this was the biggest impact they felt.
Amongst this group, 89% of those who said they were impacted professionally, believed that compromised concentration and memory could affect their job.1 Expert on TV Shows including Survivor and SAS Australia, as well as Founder of Psyched Up Clinic Mark Mathieson says, “The Flordis KeenMind® research findings clearly show that memory and poor concentration is no longer just a concern for the elderly. Gen X’s are at an important stage in their lives; often managing households, holding down high-level, senior roles, and maintaining social interactions for them and their families. So, this it is quite interesting that close to three quarters (73%) of this cohort haven’t opted to seek advice for their cognitive health.
In support of this, health commentator Gerald Quigley says, “I think part of the problem is that this demographic are still very much in denial when it comes to their health. In addition to the revelation that many in this 35+ age bracket aren’t doing much about their cognitive health, the Flordis KeenMind® research reveals that many aren’t really sure about ways to combat it – with 25% saying they don’t use supplements, as they don’t know how they relate to their specific health needs.1 With all the ups and downs that the past year brought upon us, it is understandable that these cognitive impacts are occurring in younger Australians; and so, as we try to move forward on a positive note, it’s paramount that people proactively seek ways to stay ahead of their cognitive health, even if they don’t feel like the issue is too prevalent.
“Striving to lead a holistic healthy lifestyle as much as possible, including having a sound diet, exercising consistently, regular GP check-ups and using clinically researched supplements, where necessary, is an excellent approach.
“Poor memory or lack of concentration are not things people need to feel embarrassed about, and if you think that it is impacting you, there are a range of ways you can get back on track. If you are looking to increase your concentration and memory, it is recommended you find methods that are backed by clinical research or contain ingredients that are beneficial to improve cognitive function, like CDRI-08TM.2-6
“CDRI-08TM is an extract derived from the Bacopa monnieri plant, which has been clinically researched to enhance memory retention, support mental clarity and assist with concentration.2-6 As a plant-based ingredient, it has been around for decades, and is a little know secret that can truly have a noticeable impact. If you have questions about your cognitive function in any way, be sure to consult a health professional to find the right approach for you.”
Have you or someone you know, been struggling to remember things and concentrate over the last year? Gerald Quigley reveals his top tips for ensuring you can stay ahead of the curb to keep your cognitive health in check:
1. Be on the lookout for symptoms
Forgetting things or losing concentration are not things you should ever feel embarrassed about, as it’s very common during stressful times. It’s important that if you feel any symptoms such as the inability to remember things, difficulty concentrating or staying on task, be sure to chat to a healthcare professional, discuss your symptoms and ensure you get the best support you need.
2. Be proactive with your health
While it’s hard to think about anything besides ‘now,’ start treating your body with your future self in mind. At 50, what will you be most proud of yourself for doing now at age 40? While it’s difficult to foresee health issues, you can start being proactive now and leading a healthy lifestyle, which studies have shown can help improve your functioning down the track.7
3. Explore complementary medicines:
There is so much research available about the benefits of natural supplements and complementary medicines. If you are looking to start adding supplements to your routine, make sure you do your research and use products whose efficacy has undergone clinical research. Always consult a health professional if you are unsure.
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