As a campaigner for people living with memory loss, I was delighted recently to read reports about the discovery of the Alzheimer's drug Donanemab and to hear that the breakthrough medication could be made available on the NHS as early as 2025.

I realise that this is a huge turning point in the fight against memory loss and how it is possible to slow it down. But apparently the drug is only for people with early stages of memory loss and the side effects and costs of producing and supplying the drug are under investigation.

I am also very much aware that there are still a number of much needed and on going research programmes in the fight against memory loss.

One of these is the use of Neurobic exercises to combat memory loss which I have pioneered myself.

My Neurobic exercises resources can be found on my website www.battledementia.co.uk and my most recent resource is called “Creating non dominant hand designs using overlapping mathematical shapes” Some of my designs are illustrated.

I am a St Albans mathematician, and I decided to apply my knowledge of mathematics to compile this new resource on Neurobic exercises which describes how to create non dominant hand designs using spaces resulting from overlapping mathematical shapes.

Herts Advertiser: Gareth's Neurobic exercisesGareth's Neurobic exercises (Image: Gareth Rowlands)

The methods involve using basic drawing materials such as geometrical drawing stencils, rulers, pens, pencils and felt tipped pens to create very attractive designs by colouring in the spaces created where the geometrical shapes overlap each other. But it is important to use the non dominant hand.

My research has found that using the non dominant hand to perform basic functions challenge and stimulate the brain and in turn improve memory retention.

During my visits to care homes, dementia cafes and other venues to set up Neurobic exercises workshops, I emphasise that by making efforts to give the brain regular workouts keeps the brain alert and prevents the onset of memory loss. After all ' prevention is better than cure'!

Some of the geometrical shapes used in my resource are the ones commonly seen in the world around us, for example, when we look at the architecture of some of our buildings and homes or even the shapes seen in the type of packaging used for various items we buy in our shops and supermarkets.

My new resource illustrates how I create many colourful designs which have been carefully created using the non dominant hand and there are also many exercises which visitors to the resource can attempt.

I have found that when the designs are completed they can form attractive displays as shown in the pictures.

I also found that when two or more designs are put together they can form attractive art work which can be framed and displayed.

I think it is vital to keep the brain active as an active brain is a healthy brain and our brain enjoys tackling challenging exercises like the ones I use and described here and in all my resources.

According to ongoing research, Neurobic exercises help to delay memory loss and keep the mind working 'better for longer'.

I am pleased to share my new resource and the others which can be downloaded free from my website.