Keeping The Brain Agile As We Age

Just as the body tends to “wear out” if we don’t engage it in exercise, the mind does, too. As we age, our brain shrinks in size, and we can lose up to 10% of it. Cognitive functioning becomes limited and we just aren’t as sharp as we used to be.

How can we combat this? 

• Eat nutritious foods like fish, tree nuts, etc., foods that aren’t processed and that possess antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. To keep the brain healthy, we need to feed it the best possible food.

• As people age they need less sleep, however, sleep is still vitally important to maintaining a healthy brain. Stay on track by getting a good night’s sleep, and if the spirit moves you, take naps to catch up on much needed sleep. Your brain will thank you with an improved memory.

• Music may calm the savage beast but it’s also been known to profoundly affect the brain by improving not just memory, but the process behind how we think. Listening to music will keep your brain sharp.

• Increase blood flow to your brain by keeping a good posture. Standing upright and sitting upright allows circulation to work as it should, and in the process your brain will work more efficiently.

• Engage in lifelong learning classes. When you learn something new, your brain stays agile and fit, keeping it sharp.

• Mind and body are interconnected. When you exercise the body, you exercise the brain – go for a walk with a friend, do some gardening, swim a few laps at the Y.

• Drawing is a great way to keep the mind sharp. The mere act of doodling, painting, or sketching works the brain and keeps it agile.

• Read, read, read! When you read your brain is taking in (and learning) all of the information you are reading, and it is also building new connections.

• Writing is also a great way to build brain connections- whether it’s emails or old-fashioned letters to loved ones or friends, or the novel you’ve always wanted to write, writing keeps you “young.”

• Engaging in puzzles of any kind stimulates the brain into working more effectively. Sharpen it with Sudoku puzzles, crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, etc. Plus you’ll have fun in the process!

Always Best Care has been providing seniors with in-home care in Grafton for the past 20 years. With locations all over the country, including Grafton, Ohio, Always Best Care also provides information on affordable home care solutions in Grafton. If you are interested in obtaining a free consultation, call (440)791-7177 today.