Exercise Your Brain Every Day!

Experts agree that it is important for aging adults to exercise their brains daily.  Mind games, puzzles and memory games are an enjoyable way to help seniors stay sharp.  For those comfortable using a computer, there are many games specifically designed to improve memory; however, puzzles, crosswords, and board and card games do the same thing.

Some of the best brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities such as playing an instrument, art, or dance.  In fact a study that monitored brain activity of 1,000 musicians during rest, cognitive exercises, and playing their instrument showed their brains “lit up in all areas, and synapses fired at rates hundreds of times more than resting.”  It also found the musicians’ heightened brain activity continued for up to 12 hours after they stopped playing.

Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out.  Additionally most board games, including chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making.  Furthermore, playing games that require at least two people offers the added benefit of socializing.    

Reading is another great activity and opens doors to places that seniors may be unable to travel to as well as heightens imagination and introduces new ideas.  Book clubs also offer the opportunity for socializing and an exchange of ideas.  

Other things that boost brain activity include gardening, which was found to increase serotonin levels that are a natural anti-depressant.  Physical exercise also increases brain activity by moving nutrients, blood, and oxygen throughout the body.  In addition it “helps reduce sugars and cortisol: both implicated for worsening Alzheimer’s and dementia.”  

We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our senior living community as well as our wellness programs and activities.  MorningStar at Arrowhead is dedicated to making your retirement years carefree and offers a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community.

MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.”  We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour.

Source: mindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/