The importance of brain exercises for graceful aging
Mental health is an important topic to acknowledge and discuss, especially among older adults. The National Institutes of Health reports the global prevalence of dementia in people under the age of 70 increased by 122% in recent decades.
Although Alzheimer’s disease or other neurodegenerative illnesses are not inevitable with age, incorporating brainstimulating activities into a daily routine can pay off in the long run.
• Learnanewlanguage. Speaking a new language opens up new opportunities for socialization and also strengthens the brain. Studies show that bilingualism increases and strengthens the connectivity between different areas of the brain, which may delay the onset of dementias.
• Learn new skills. Trying something new might stimulate the brain in ways that improve its function. A cognitively demanding skill, such as photography, playing an instrument and other activities could enhance memory function. Teaching those skills to others can also reinforce brain functions.
• Take dancing classes. Dancing might help combat Alzheimer's disease by improving blood circulation throughout the body. It also forces people’s memory and processing speed to work at a higher capacity through learning the choreography.
• Use all of your senses. A study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience indicated doing activities that simultaneously engage each of the five senses can strengthen the brain. Working memory and recall were higher for multi-sensory interactions. Baking a batch of cookies is an example of a multisensory experience.
• Workonpuzzles. Crossword puzzles, word searches, word games, and brain teaser-like puzzles are entertaining and work the brain. Research has • shownthatevendoingjigsaw puzzles activates multiple cognitive abilities and is a protective factor for visuospatial cognitive aging.
• Socializewithothers. Socializing with others can stimulate attention and memory. This helps to strengthen neural networks in the brain that make the brain work harder. This increase in mental activity can pay off in the long run. Socialization is also beneficial for mental health, especially among older adults who tend to be more isolated. People often focus on physical workouts, but they should also remember to strengthen their brains.
By embracing a multifaceted approach that includes regular brain exercises alongside a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to maintain cognitive function, enhance emotional well-being, and enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant life in later years.
—MetroCreativeConnection
