6 Fun Activities That Stimulate Brain Health During Seniors' Retirement Years
Growing into your golden years does not mean that memory problems and other brain health concerns are inevitable. Quite the contrary! Seniors can explore a variety of activities that stimulate brain health and help prevent cognitive decline. Best of all, these activities are fun and a great way to connect with friends and family.
Benefits of Brain-Stimulating Activities For Seniors
Engaging in brain-stimulating activities can help you to sharpen your memory. By participating in activities that stimulate the brain, you can also help reduce the risk of mental decline and age-related cognitive diseases. This is known as brain plasticity, a technical term that scientists use to describe how an engaged brain keeps creating new neural connections. Finally, regularly engaging your brain through activities that require thought, focus, and memory has all been shown to improve seniors' mood and overall quality of life.
1. Sharpen Your Brain With Puzzles
Crossword puzzles are one of the most popular types of brain-stimulating puzzles and are an excellent way to exercise the brain and keep your brain sharp. Jigsaw puzzles help encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills and can be enjoyable to assemble with friends and family. Finally, Sudoku is a great number-based puzzle that challenges you to think logically and strategically as you fill in the blanks.
2. Play a Strategic Game
Mahjong is a game of strategy and skill that is a great way to keep your brain sharp. One study found that regularly playing mahjong boosted logical thinking, short-term memory, and attention in seniors. More traditional board games are also fun, social activities that help keep you engaged and entertained. Games such as Scrabble, chess, and checkers are great for exercising your cognitive abilities.
3. Plug Into Video Games and Apps
In-depth video games and apps can also be great activities that stimulate brain health. These games test your reflex time and require full attention and focus as you solve problems in the game. There are even apps for your smartphone specifically designed to boost your cognitive abilities, such as Wordle, Lumosity, and BrainHQ.
4. Engage in Social Interaction
Spending time with friends and loved ones is an important part of keeping mentally and emotionally healthy. Seniors can use this time to play board games, discuss topics of interest, and even practice new skills.
5. Work Out Your Body to Work Out Your Brain
Physical exercise is essential for seniors' overall health and well-being, and it also helps stimulate your brain. Regular physical activity can help improve focus, memory, and mental clarity. It's even been shown to potentially reduce your risks of dementia by 30%. Remember to consult your physician before beginning any new fitness routine.
6. Learn Some New Skills
Learning new skills and hobbies is a great way for seniors to keep their minds active. You can try learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or even making arts and crafts.
Senior Helpers Burnsville Offers Personalized In-Home Care
At Senior Helpers Burnsville, our team is well-versed in everything from companion care (including help with hobbies, games, and more) to Alzheimer's and dementia care. Discover fun activities that stimulate brain health with the support of our licensed and trained professional caregivers. Contact Senior Helpers Burnsville today to learn more about how we can help seniors throughout Burnsville, Saint Paul. Cottage Grove, and Hastings, MN.