Exercise Your Brain and Improve Your Memory

Retirement years are a time to relax and enjoy the rewards of a lifetime of work and challenges, but seniors need to continue to challenge their minds to keep their memories sharp.

Research has shown that seniors who were cognitively active were 2.6 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia than those who were not - a very motivating statistic.

These suggestions are simple ways to stay mentally active.

Enrol in a class or college course

Whether you have an interest in computers, art history, french or genealogy--there is a class for you and many of these courses are offered at a discount for seniors.

Express your creativity

Do you enjoy drawing, painting, singing, making jewelry, or writing poetry? These are just a few of the ways you can stimulate your imagination. These ways of expressing creativity encourage the mind to see the world in new ways and promote problem solving skills.

Play Video Games

A recent study found that seniors were able to perform mentally as well as they did in their thirties after spending only 40 hours with brain training software. The popular video game company, Nintendo, offers a series of “Brain Age” games that provide mental exercises.

Crossword Puzzles and Scrabble

Crossword puzzles are challenging brainteasers that stimulate problem-solving skills. The practice of actively searching for words may help reduce tip-of-the-tongue experiences where particular words can’t quite be recalled. The board game Scrabble also offers this type of mental exercise.

Social Networking

There are many studies that indicate that an active social life may delay memory loss among older adults. Participation in sports leagues, card clubs, and church are all ways to widen your social circle. Volunteer work is also a great way to interact with people while improving your community and the world.

Exercise

There is a strong correlation between physical and cognitive health. Exercise is key to memory reinforcement at all ages. It is easy to find exercise groups created especially for seniors in your community.

The brain can learn at any age. Recognize what you love and get out there and do it! Keep your brain active!