As people begin to age, health concerns increase. Although we can’t stop the aging process, there are simple things that can be done to combat its effects.
Aging affects each person differently and there is no way to stop its decline. Common changes in the brain become more noticeable as time goes on.
There will be signs that someone can’t multitask as they used to, or they forget names and numbers. Where learning something new took minutes years ago, it may take longer as we age. Then there are the slips in memory or forgetting where the keys were left.
Continue reading for 10 tips on how to keep your brain sharp.
1. Read Whenever You Can
The daily newspaper may become a thing of the past, but until then keep reading it. Books, magazines and other forms of literature can be used to stimulate the brain.
Reading also helps with the memorization of words and events. It keeps the mind engaged and sharp. Books are a path to continue the learning process well into your later years.
2. Keep Writing
In today’s fast-paced world the art of writing letters has been minimized to text messages with emojis and abbreviations. It may be easier, but is it good for a sharp memory.
Don’t fold to peer pressure. Make it a practice to write out your messages complete with correct punctuation. Writing things out will help with memory sensory and maintain your communication skills.
3. Listen to Music
Don’t give up your love of music as you age. Music occupies large areas of our brain and stimulates the senses.
It has been shown that music can change our mood from sad to happy. Upbeat songs can motivate us to get moving. The neurotransmitter dopamine is said to be released in small doses when our favorite song is played.
4. Let Your Creative Juices Flow
Is there something you love doing? Painting, knitting, pottery or other arts and crafts projects can help you keep a sharp memory.
The calm associated with painting and other craft activities help relieve stress. They can also improve your mood and improve brain health because it is a good relaxation technique.
Reducing stress is the path to keeping the mind sharp.
5. Exercise is how to Keep Your Brain Sharp
A body at rest stays at rest, and a body in motion stays in motion. Staying active is a step towards maintaining sharp mental health.
As we age it is necessary to stay fit and active. Exercise helps keep the body and mind strong. It releases stress and can help you avoid bouts of depression, barring any other mental health issues.
Staying active and exercising not only improve your mental health but can have a positive impact on your overall health. So take a daily walk, ride a bike or spend time working in your garden.
6. Maintain Good Body Posture
Aging takes its toll on the body and can lead to the loss of bone density. There are simple things we can do to help ourselves along the way.
Maintaining good body posture is easier when we’re younger. As we age it will become intentional. Being mindful of when we are not sitting up straight with feet planted on the ground can keep the memory sharp.
Consistent exercise and reducing things like alcohol intake, no smoking, and increased vitamin D can all help with keeping the body strong.
7. Take a College Course or Become a Mentor
We should never stop learning. Continuing education keeps the mind sharp.
Taking a college course at a local university may do the trick. It gets you out of the house among other people to engage with. A class can strengthen sharp mental health in aging citizens.
If taking a class does not interest you, consider being a mentor at a local school where you can interact with a younger generation.
8. Be Mindful of Your Diet
Junk in junk out, can also apply to what we put into our bodies. Maintaining a healthy diet can promote a sharp memory.
Certain foods lead to a healthy brain and can be quite beneficial as we age. Healthy foods may delay the onset of Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Foods that contain caffeine can boost energy, which keeps the mind sharp. Caffeine can be found in chocolate, coffee, and energy drinks. Getting your day off to a good start with a high-fiber breakfast also helps.
You should also incorporate fruits, nuts, whole grains, berries and fish into your meals. Although these are good sources of brain food, make sure you are eating a well-balanced diet.
9. Have Fun and Play Games
There are plenty of games and activities that work towards keeping sharp mental health. With the goal of keeping the mind engaged, here are some things you can do to achieve that goal and have fun.
Try your hand at working a jigsaw puzzle. The more pieces the better. They keep you engaged and the brain actively working for hours.
Maybe you like crossword puzzles or cryto-quote puzzles. Both keep you thinking and work on memorization skills. With today’s digital-driven games, there is an endless supply of activities you can experiment with.
10. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Regardless of your age, you can never go wrong with a good night’s sleep or an afternoon nap. Proper rest is instrumental to a sharp memory.
Older adults should try to get anywhere from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Not only is it good for your brain health, it will also do wonders for your energy levels.
When you awake from a good night’s rest your body is more energized and ready to tackle a new day.
Have These Tips Helped?
If you are a senior citizen wondering how to keep your brain sharp, this list is a good start. We can’t turn back the hands of time, but we can start practicing good, brain-boosting activities today.
For more information on aging healthy or if you’re in need of a medical provider, contact us at Meritage Medical Network.