Here are a few simple ways to help improve mental focus and memory in seniors, and maybe even prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.
Decreased memory and mental focus happen to some extent to all of us as we age, but a growing body of medical evidence suggests that lifelong stimulation is the key to building and maintaining brain cells, thus slowing memory loss.
As we age it’s important to help stimulate the brain in many different ways. As a movement specialist, I always recommend exercise as being an important part of your daily routine.
The one thing I tell my older clients is to take up dancing. Even take dance lessons. It’s fun, social, and challenges not only your physical body but your brain. It is a great way to get cardiovascular exercise, improvements in balance, and help with your coordination. If you learn new dance steps you are challenging the brain and cognition because you need to remember the moves.
Some common suggestions we hear from experts is to challenge your brain with games such as crossword puzzles, sudoku (a math game), and word games. If you play board games in groups the social interaction is an extra advantage.
Other ways to help with keeping your brain sharp include learning to play an instrument, or if you already play, challenge yourself to learn a new piece of music. Learning a new language is also a great way to stimulate those brain cells.
So, make sure you move and stimulate your brain on a daily basis for a more functional life as you age.