Looking after your brain is vital in any stage of life, although it’s particularly important for the elderly. Exercising the mind to keep it active is as important as maintaining your physical fitness and strength as you age. Research suggests that simple brain stimulating activities can help keep neural pathways balanced and prevent beta-amyloid deposits from developing, which are the destructive proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Giving your mind new ideas and challenges to connect with is one of the best ways to stay alert and promote brain health. Exercising your mind can be fun and easy to do thanks to quick games, tasks and activities which can be enjoyed anywhere and by anyone.
Here are some tried and tested brain training games and activities that are especially suited to the elderly:
Sudoku
Sudoku is a brilliant logic-based game that involves problem solving and looking for number patterns. The skills developed in this game have real-world implications, helping older adults assess the repercussions of decisions that they are faced with every day. As Sudoku is a challenge, it also gives you a great sense of accomplishment.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles are an effective way to stimulate your mind while taking some time to relax and unwind. They aid in reducing blood pressure and slowing your breathing rate. For some, working on jigsaw puzzles can be a kind of meditation, perfect for seniors with busy minds.
Scrabble
Scrabble is a popular problem-solving game that’s guaranteed to get your brain buzzing while enjoying some social interaction with friends and family. When playing Scrabble your brain is working in the area associated with memory and visual processing, known to aid cell activity and assist in preventing brain degeneration.
Knitting
Knitting Knitting provides physical benefits, and it’s a great brain exercise, plus it’s a rewarding activity when you see your marvellous creations. Knitting is full of new skills for seniors to learn; using multiple needles or discovering a new way to do a stitch. Each knitting project is also different, giving seniors new challenges for their minds. Whether you choose to make a pair of mittens or a blanket, working with your hands will help keep your mind and senses finely tuned.
Reading
Reading is more than just an enjoyable past time, it’s also great way to stimulate your brain. Scientific studies have found many benefits of reading for the elderly; these include everything from reducing stress and enhancing sleep to improving memory circuits, sharpening decision-making, and possibly delaying the onset of dementia.
No matter how you choose to exercise your brain, try incorporating some of these activities into your daily routine and have some fun doing it!
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