A study released by St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto found that brain exercises are more beneficial for seniors looking to maintain their brain functions than medication. This is just one reason it’s important to help your senior loved one keep his or her brain active and stimulated throughout all stages of life. Here’s a closer look at what can be done to keep the brain active in the golden years.
Keep Learning
A rewarding way for seniors to mentally exercise is by learning new skills and absorbing knowledge. It’s believed new learning keeps brain cells healthy while also boosting communication among various areas of the brain. Possibilities with senior learning include:- Taking up a new hobby
- Exploring classes for seniors offered at local colleges or senior centers
- Using learning-based apps that teach new skills with easy-to-follow tutorials
Eat Right
An aging brain needs a wide variety of essential nutrients to remain active and fully functioning during the golden years. Help your loved one reap the rewards of a brain-friendly diet by encouraging him or her to enjoy foods that include:- Sardines, salmon, trout, and other healthy fatty fish
- Blueberries and other deeper-hued berries
- Bright-colored citrus fruits
- Dark chocolate and coffee—in moderation
Get Regular Exercise
Researchers at Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa have noted a linked between regular exercise and “repair process” in the brain that helps with important connections. Exercise also helps the brain develop entirely new connections (neuroplasticity), which could boost memory and overall cognitive health. Plus, there’s evidence regular exercise may significantly reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life.Socialize
Social interaction keeps the brain active by keeping the mind focused and engaged. Also, being social active reduces issues with loneliness and depression that can take a toll on cognitive health and wellbeing for older adults. Fortunately, there are many ways to remain social in the golden years, some of which include:- Inviting friends and family members over for games, cooking, or other social events
- Playing multiplayer video games with fairly basic concepts
- Volunteering
- Joining clubs specifically for seniors
- Taking day trips with other older adults
Enjoy Daily Cognitive Stimulation
Simple activities like completing word puzzles, using apps like Lumosity that offer many different brain-stimulating games, and reading can provide sufficient cognitive stimulation. Older adults may gain similar levels of beneficial brain activity with:- Enjoyable hobbies
- Music-based activities
- Art and/or craft projects