5 Mental Exercises to Stay Healthy
The brain is one of the most important muscles in the body and, like other muscles, needs exercise to stay healthy. Our brain is responsible for keeping us happy throughout our lives, and mental health is often a major part of our ability to live independently as we grow older. Let’s discuss five enjoyable brain exercises and activities older adults can use to help keep their minds sharp and their hearts happy.
Word Games
Word games serve as effective and fun ways to engage the mind. For seniors, Sudoku, crosswords, word jumbles, and word searches help to improve memory, word recall and other functions in the brain.
Since local newspapers in their daily editions usually have at least one, if not all, of these activities, the cost is low. In fact, the cost could be zero, as dozens of websites and apps offer these games free of charge.
Card Games
Simple card games like Poker, Solitaire, Go Fish and Memory Match can help improve seniors’ cognitive function. Card games stimulate parts of the brain, together with other functions, which are responsible for logical problem solving and memory retention.
Caregiver Tip: Play card games with your loved one or patient after dinner to keep their mind sharp
Music
Music is a powerful tool that can influence our mood and create feelings of happiness, sadness or overall well – being. Play a CD of favorite songs or music for relaxation that matches the time of day, such as mealtime or bed preparation. Try to learn the lyrics of a new song and sing it. Play a musical instrument like a piano or harmonica.
Gardening
Gardening is a popular pastime for many individuals. It acts as an effective physical activity, keeping seniors active and mobile. Gardening requires a lot of hand/eye coordination as well as sensory awareness which may be why researchers have found that it helps to lower the risk of dementia.
Cooking Classes
Cooking or baking is a good way to use all five senses, each involving different parts of the brain. In addition, following a recipe requires preparation work, measuring and using your judgment.
Cooking and baking can also encourage seniors to feel more self – sufficient and less dependent on others. This boosts your confidence and can improve your state of mind and quality of life.
At Thrive USA Home Care, we know choosing a personal companion for your loved one for activities both inside and outside the home can be a difficult task. You need someone who will care for your loved one as you would, and who you can trust. We do all the heavy lifting for you, carefully screening and training all our Personal Care Coaches to provide only the best possible care. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation!