Our brains are not immune to the aging process. Since it’s impossible to stop getting older, it’s important to give your brain regular exercise. Seniors especially need to keep their brains active.
Just as your body can become sedentary, so can your brain. When you fail to feed your brain stimulation it could lead to memory loss and other problems like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Here are some top memory boosting exercises that can help seniors keep their brain power on point!
Physical Exercise
While physical exercise is great for building muscle as well as strengthening ligaments and joints, it’s also a great workout for the noggin! Seniors who have limited mobility can still benefit from a variety of exercises such as seated or aquatic exercises that are low impact.
Socializing
Seniors that are involved in social activities tend to stay sharp! Whenever possible take your elderly loved one out for a visit with family and friends or help them participate in other activities such as volunteering. Joining a group that shares similar hobby interests is another way for seniors to get in some social time.
Puzzles and Games
Crossword puzzles, sudoku and jigsaw puzzles all offer a good cerebral workout by strengthening cognitive skills. Games such as chess and checkers, and cards are also brain-friendly activities that can help sharpen memory and increase reasoning abilities.
Reading
Reading a book or magazine engages the mind by tapping into imagination. Seniors who read are taken feel-good places.Ask them what their favorite classic book is that they haven’t read in a long time and surprise them with a literary force of brainpower!
Listen to Music
Listening to music can tap into the sensory part of the brain. Put on their favorite music and sing along. They may even get up to dance and move a little bit which throws in some exercise for double the fun!
Seniors who engage in activities that stimulate the mind often feel happier. The Arbors Assisted Living is a community that encourages seniors to participate in activities that benefit their overall health and wellness. Contact us today to find out how we can help your senior loved one.