We’re living longer than ever before, and advances in healthcare mean we can continue to enjoy doing many of the things we love. However, sometimes with age comes the challenge of possible cognitive decline.
Here are five easy (and fun!) “brain boosting” activities ?to help keep your brain healthy:
- Play brain games. When we exercise, our body becomes stronger. The brain also benefits from “mental workouts”. Research shows that when our brain neurons are stimulated by new information, such as by playing a word game, we can offset brain deterioration and memory loss.
- Take a nap. Who doesn’t love a good snooze? It’s a great way to rest your body, and it rejuvenates your brain as well by helping it sort through your tangle of daily thoughts. In fact, researchers say that seniors over 60 who took a 30- to 60-minute rest performed better on cognitive tests.?
- Read, read, read. This is one of the easiest ways to stimulate the brain. Whether you enjoy holding a book in your hands, downloading reading material to your favorite digital device, or surfing the internet, there is no lack of interesting and informative content to devour!?
- Get social. Studies show that seniors who regularly engage in social interaction maintain their brain function and reduce their risks of depression and dementia. Take walks and chat with your neighbors, meet friends regularly for lunch or a board or card game, find a volunteer opportunity, or join a club that champions a cause you’re passionate about.
- Keep learning. Continuing education of any kind is one of the keys to maintaining long-term brain health. As we age our neurons may slow down, but this doesn’t mean we lose the interest to grow or the capacity to learn. Consider taking a class at a local college, community center or online, or teach yourself a new subject.
Lifestyle plays a huge role in how well your brain ages. Maintain your brain by staying active and engaged!?
