Keeping Your Mind Sharp as You Age

Most seniors experience some level of cognitive decline as they age. In fact, researchers say the brain actually shrinks in size by about 10%. Fortunately, there are ways to combat this cognitive decline and keep the mind sharp as you age.

1. Don’t slouch! When you slouch, you are impairing both the respiratory and circulatory systems in your body from working optimally. Maintaining good posture helps you get blood and air into your brain to help it function more efficiently.
   
2. Turn on the music. Most people don’t realize how profoundly music impacts the brain. Classical music, jazz music, instrumental music, opera, etc. all help the brain create new pathways and is linked to improved memory as well as improved cognitive functioning.
   
3. Move your body. When you exercise, you’re not only doing all of your muscles and bones good, you’re also providing key health benefits to your brain! Endorphins are released, there is an increase in air and blood flow to the brain and mood is enhanced.
   
4. Keep the puzzles handy. Whether they are word puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, etc. when you participate in these types of games you improve your brain functioning and improve memory and mental capacity.
   
5. Pick up a book and read it! Reading is one of the most fundamental benefits you can give your brain. Not only does your brain create more neural pathways when you read it also absorbs the information in the book such as language, culture, history, etc.
   
6. Eat a healthy diet. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, water, etc. will help you keep your body working at optimal levels.
   
7. Write something. Have you ever wanted to write the great American novel? Or maybe short stories or memoirs? Writing will also improve brain health. Keep in mind that even emails and journaling will have the same result.
   
8. Pick up a paintbrush. We all doodle while waiting on the phone – why not create a “work of art” or even just a bunch of little doodles. Either way, your brain will have a great workout!

Do you live in the Birmingham area? Are you interested in learning about senior care in Birmingham? If you would like a free care consultation from an Always Best Care professional care coordinator, please call the Always Best Care Birmingham location at 205-874-9730. They will be happy to talk with you about home care in Birmingham and also free referrals to senior living environments.