There have been studies in recent years on “super-agers”; these are people who are entering their 80s with a quick wit, crossword skills, and all the cognitive abilities of someone at least 30 years their junior. Therefore, it shows that as you enter into your golden years; you don’t have to resign yourself to sitting in an armchair and staring into space for the rest of your years. However, like any muscle, you’ll need to keep your mind challenged and stimulated, to keep up the momentum and boast a healthy brain.
The following are some tips and ideas to help you, and your family, to keep your brain working as it should and exceed your expectations in the future.
Challenges And Problem Solving
Much like a workout for your limbs; exercising your brain will help to maintain its health and fitness levels for the years ahead. Therefore, it’s worth getting into the habit of giving it a regular, daily challenge; the more difficult, the better. Enhance your cognitive skills by challenging friends and family to a game of chess, checkers, or scrabble; if you find a game boring, change it to prevent to stagnation and detrimental effects that boredom can have on your mind.
Stimulating your thoughts and improving brain health doesn’t have to involve words, numbers, or puzzles; regular walk in the park or around town can be the answer to giving yourself a daily dose of information. Taking in and contemplating your changing surroundings is the perfect way to utilize your thought process and keep your mind lubricated. You’re also going to be getting your circulation pumping towards your brain and releasing endorphins which will encourage an active mind. Speaking to new people and regularly communicating will ensure that you remain socially active and will be able to fight loneliness and isolation; both proven to deteriorate cognitive skills and processes.
Care And Assistance
Your family will want you to stay mentally healthy for as long as possible; so get them involved in regular challenges and get-togethers to remain stimulated. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help with things as you age; forgetfulness and mobility issues are normal part of getting older for many, so it’s not about giving up, it’s just about knowing when and where to ask for assistance and encouragement. You may need further memory impairment help as you get into your senior years, so it’s worth looking into your options and making a plan with your loved ones when necessary. Remain an active member of your family and friendship circles, and use these relationships to better your quality of life which will, in turn, have a positive effect on the health of your mind.
New Ideas And Experiences
Lastly, but certainly not least; keep learning, seeing, and experiencing new things. Everything from a Broadway show to learning and understanding Japanese will help to challenge your brain and keep it functioning for longer. Your retirement years are there to be enjoyed, and you’ll have far more time than you did during your younger life; therefore, it’s crucial for your cognitive health to stay interested in life and embrace new subjects whenever you can.