Exercising The Brain Keeps Seniors Mentally Sharp

Main Category: Mental Health
Also Included In: Seniors / Aging;  Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 23 Apr 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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There are many consequences associated with aging, but none may be more frustrating for seniors than memory loss and mental decline. A new approach to aging, based on the belief that the mind - just like the body - can be trained to increase its strength and performance, is taking hold. Always Best Care Senior Services is offering a fun, step-by-step guide that seniors can use to sharpen their mental skills.

"Seniors pride themselves in their ability to maintain their independence, and healthy cognitive function is a fundamental part of day-to-day life," said Michael Newman, president of Always Best Care Senior Services. "That's why we believe that seniors should be proactively fine-tuning their mental capacity by exercising their brain just as they would a muscle in their body."

Newman says seniors can incorporate the following habits into their daily routine:

- Get gaming - Traditional brain games such as crossword puzzles and other mind teasers such as Sodoku are now being complimented by interactive gaming such as Nintendo Wii and various online outlets.

- Experiment with blogging - Blogs, which refer to "web logs," are a healthy way for seniors to document their thoughts and share them with others. They also act as an outlet for keeping in touch with family and friends.

- Embrace learning - Educational activities such as learning a new language or taking a class at a local community college keep the brain pliable and challenge it to think in new ways. The bottom line is to branch out and absorb something that's unfamiliar to the mind.

- Listen to audio books - By conveying thoughts and ideas without causing eye strain, books on tape are a great way for older adults to stimulate their mind.

- Interact often - Socializing with friends and family members is a pleasurable way seniors can work their brains. Conversation incorporates the brain's capacity to link thoughts and recall moments from memory.

Source
Always Best Care Senior Services

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