Ways To Keep An Aging Mind Active

Medicine is constantly looking for new and effective ways to fight the effects of aging. While we can't maintain the same level of physical activity throughout our lives, we can keep our minds sharp. Beyond doctors visits and prescriptions, you can employ a few practices at home that can go a long way. Below are a few tips for simple ways to keep a senior’s mind agile.

Read

Reading gives our minds something that watching television or staring at a computer screen does not. A study from the Mayo Clinic found that reading can decrease the chances someone will develop dementia by up to 50 percent. If you have an aging relative, you should encourage them to read for at least 30 minutes every day.

Play Games And Do Puzzles

Games and puzzles are not just for entertainment, they help your mind as well. Playing games and completing puzzles can help to boost creativity, memory, and the ability to make decisions. Something as simple as spending a few minutes with the puzzle section in the newspaper can help an elderly loved one to keep their mind active. Even playing video games can benefit a senior.

Journal

Writing by hand can help to stimulate areas of the brain that otherwise would not get much attention. Taking time to physically write is important, especially in today’s world of keyboards and touch screens. Seniors should take the time to write down their memories, stories, or simply what’s happening at the moment. In addition to possible medical benefits, a journal of memories could also make a nice gift for grandkids and relatives!