By Maryse IsmaSpecial to CSMS MagazineFirst, remember that minor memory lapses that occur with age are normal and are not usually an indication of a serious condition like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Some gerontologists liken the lapses to information overload- when our mental computers temporarily run out of storage space. It happens.Here’s a three-step plan that might help counter midlife memory slippage:1. Exercise regularly, to boost blood flow throughout the body. Better flow to your brain has been shown to give a boost to mental function.2. Try ginkgo biloba supplements (following package directions), which enhance blood flow to the brain and may improve memory.3. Ask your doctor about taking phosphatidylserine, a fatty substance that has been shown to halt memory loss (and at times improve memory) in those who have suffered such deterioration. Suggested dosage is 200 to 300 mg per day, but it may take a few months to notice improvement.Note: Maryse Isma, MSW is the executive of Community Support for Youth and Families (CSYF), a subsidiary of CSMS.