As people age, the ability to process information may change or slow down. Everyone agrees that physical exercise is good for building the body and aiding in the overall health of a person, but how many understand that by working on mental exercises, one can also enhance cognitive health. The more a senior works on mind-stimulating activities, the better the mind becomes at processing information. Please find below exercises designed to improve and stimulate the mind.
1. Games and Puzzles
Word games like Scrabble, crossword puzzles, solitaire, checkers, chess, sudoku, bridge, etc. are great activities to boost brain function and entertain. All games and puzzles should be fun for the senior. Start simple, go slowly, and don’t worry about rules. One can start with simple levels and build up depending on the senior’s mental capabilities. Encourage your loved ones to play regularly by themselves or with friends and family members when possible!
2. Reading
Reading is excellent for the mind! It’s an activity that exercises your memory and helps keep the mind sharp. Your senior can enjoy skimming through the daily paper, magazines, or any article on subjects they are interested in. The internet also makes it even easier to find something good to read.
3. Exercise and Healthy Eating
It’s important for seniors to get as much activity as possible. Many seniors sit too long in their favorite chair and watch TV, but exercise can benefit both the body and mind! Encourage your senior to get up, walk around, and do simple activities daily. Your loved one’s doctor can advise the best exercises for the seniors based on their current state of health. Learning about proper nutrition and watching the scale is also beneficial, as particular foods can improve brain function and even help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s.
4. Socialization
Social interaction is critical for all people, but especially for seniors. Often, seniors experience loneliness and depression, but staying social can stimulate the brain and slow the rate of memory decline. This is a period of life when socialization with family and friends is vital. Nowadays, you don’t even have to be in the same room to communicate face-to-face! Seniors can be taught how to use Facetime or Skype to stay in touch with loved ones.
Together, these activities can have a positive effect on the overall cognitive condition of seniors. Incorporating games, reading, exercise, healthy eating habits, and social time can significantly improve quality of life and help your loved one thrive throughout their later years.
There are plenty of senior living options available if your loved one’s cognitive condition is moving from the natural aging process toward dementia. At Evergreen Senior Living in Decatur, we offer The Legacy: Memory Support, where our compassionate and experienced caregivers will ensure your loved one received the highest quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment. Our staff incorporates a variety of fun activities that boost brain health and encourage social interaction! Give us a call today to learn more: (217) 864–4300.
