Although age-related memory loss and decline of cognitive abilities may be inevitable in many cases, we are far from powerless to do something to preserve these functions. Growing old is not something that happens over night. If we can learn to recognize the early signs of aging, we can take action to slow down the aging process, at least to an extent, and buy ourselves more time and, more importantly, a better, sustainable quality of life.
Providers of homecare in Tarzana understand the importance of keeping the elderly active and engaged, both physically and mentally. So what are the most effective strategies to counteract the functional decline that normally comes with advanced age and preserve or, better yet, improve brain health in the elderly? Stay tuned to find out.
How can we improve our brain health in old age?
If you are proactive enough and act ahead, not only can you keep your brain healthy, but you may even protect yourself against conditions such as dementia, depression, etc. So how do you stay mentally fit? Try one or all of the following strategies:
- Practice your memory
Memory exercises are a simple yet effective way to improve short and long-term memory. You can try to memorize a simple list in the morning and test yourself around noon. Try to learn the lyrics to a new song you’ve just heard on the radio. Another way to practice your memory is to rely less on gadgets and technology. For instance, you can do simple math in your head instead of on the calculator or the calculator app.
- Play ‘thinking’ games
If you want to keep your sharp wits, you have to train your brain, and any kind of thinking game will do. You can opt for individual games such as Sudoku or a crossword puzzle or engage in board games or more complex, more demanding puzzles with company. Many of these games are available online, making this method of boosting brain health all the more convenient.
- Learn something new
Learning a foreign language, picking up a new skill such as playing an instrument or taking up a hobby such as painting? All these are the nearly perfect activities for the elderly who finally have the time to immerse themselves in the project. Regardless of our age, learning new things enhances cognitive functioning and stimulates the brain, but it is especially beneficial for the elderly. Learning new skills can also give the elderly a sense of wellbeing and accomplishment, as well as a boost of self-confidence.
- Social interactions
The elderly should engage in social activities, whether it is bonding with old friends face-to-face, meeting new people, or just chatting on the phone. By stimulating the brain, these activities reduce the risk of depression and depression which are increasingly common among the elderly population.
- Stress management
Fears, responsibilities, uncertainty, financial issues, health problems, all these are terrifying and can take a toll on our health, but all this can be helped. Effective stress management is instrumental in protecting the mind and the body, especially as we age, and warding off memory loss, mental health problems and similar concerns. To learn to minimize chronic stress and keep it under control, it is important to incorporate healthy, relaxing habits in our day-to-day routine, be it exercising, socializing, getting a dog or cat at the Cat Connection animal shelter, gardening or any other activity that is more to your taste. The choices are virtually endless.
- Keep fit & adopt a healthy, balanced diet
Mens sana in corpore sano is Lating for A healthy mind in a healthy body. And it’s true as ever! Leading an active, healthy lifestyle translates into an active, healthy body, which in turn translates into an active, healthy mind. Adopting a healthier lifestyle with a balanced diet and plenty of physical activity can contribute to your loved one’s optimal brain function, improve their overall health and prolong their life.
- Seek help in your time of need
One of the most terrifying things about deteriorating mental health is that it can sneak up on us. Often, even those closest to us fail to notice or understand the symptoms and the telltale signs of a condition and remain unaware of its existence for too long.
Homecare in Tarzana: better brain health, better quality of life
As we age, we need to take proper care of our bodies, perhaps even more so than we did when we were in our prime. The same goes for our minds. Take decisive action and turn to an agency which has been looking out for seniors in Tarzana and the surrounding areas for over 20 years.
The best part of professional homecare is that it is delivered straight to your loved one’s door. It doesn’t get more convenient than that. Find out if homecare is the answer you have been looking for. Dial now!
