As we age, we need to take care of our minds just as much as we take care of our bodies. Although many seniors maintain good mental health, others suffer from developing conditions that affect their memories and cognitive behaviour.
The good news is you can take proactive steps to boost your brain health, resulting in reduced mental health issues and conditions. We have seven ways to boost your brain health as you get older.
Seven Simple Ways to Boost Your Brain Health
1 – Seek Social Interaction & Develop Relationships
By participating in social activities and having stimulating conversations, you will enjoy a happier and more engaging life.
Research has consistently shown that socially active people tend to live longer and fuller lives, but it’s also important for maintaining brain health.
The more you interact with people, the more engaged your brain is. Planning events and taking part in classes helps keep the mind active and busy while boosting your spirits.
2- Eat Healthy
What you put into your body has a great impact on how your mind operates.
It’s well known that unhealthy, fatty foods and artificial flavours and sugars can negatively impact how you think and feel. In many cases, people will develop brain fog or confusion after digesting specific foods. And the less said about the damages of smoking and drinking alcohol, the better.
Which makes it more important to focus on eating healthy, natural meals. Vegetables, fruits and berries, nuts, and healthy lean proteins, such as fish and organic eggs, can improve memory and overall brain function. The same applies to consuming organic teas, particularly green tea. It also makes your body stronger and fitter while reducing any potential digestive problems or issues.
It’s best to consult with your doctor regarding your diet, so you what you should and shouldn’t be eating.
3- Extend Your Education
By learning and challenging yourself, you are unwillingly enhancing the strength of your brain. Many seniors keep themselves motivated by undertaking new skills, hobbies or programs.
For example, learning woodworking is a process that requires patience and internalizing new patterns that stimulate the brain. This applies to all artistic and creative pursuits, such as cooking, learning a new language, painting and so forth.
Cultivating a new hobby is an excellent way to keep your mind active and healthy.
4- Play Thinking Games
The likes of sudoku, word puzzles, Scrabble, chess and many other brain-turning games can improve brain function and increase seniors’ lifespans.
These games help with the brain’s cognitive side, including memory and the ability to act instinctively. It can also assist with eye-tracking and vision problems.
It’s even better if you were to play these games with someone, as you’ll both be improving your brain health and increasing your social interaction at the same time.
5- Practice Your Memory
Memory loss is one of those things that happen when we tend to age. Thankfully, there are proactive ways to improve your memory and reduce any potential issues.
Regularly engaging in memory exercises can improve both short and long-term retention.
It can be as simple as making a list of grocery items or birthdays and then recalling them. You can then test yourself an hour later to see how many you remembered.
You can also draw maps to particular places, drawings of locations, or write down lyrics and quotes from your favourite music and movies.
There is no need to panic if you feel that your memory might be slipping. It’s all a matter of practice and repetition. There are many professional and memory loss experts (https://www.themanorvillage.com/) that can help you improve your memory.
6- Maintain Mobility & Fitness
What’s good for the body is also good for the brain.
Regular movement and motions can sharpen thinking and reduced mental fatigue while also encouraging blood flow to the brain, increasing endorphins to make you feel better and happier.
It doesn’t have to be over-the-top activities or fitness classes. Even daily walking or mobility sessions can prove highly beneficial for your brain and body. You can even reduce blood pressure and the chances of developing cardiac problems while becoming stronger and fitter.
7- Getting Help When You Need It
There is no shame in asking for help when you need it.
Too often, seniors reject help and, therefore, suffer as a result.
If you feel that you need support to boost your brain health, or if you notice that your parents might require it, it’s best to speak to senior living experts and professionals.
You’ll be able to receive a personalized plan that aids your brain, resulting in you living a happier and better life.