Keeping Your Brain Healthy as You Age

Research supports the importance of seniors staying physically fit as well as keeping their brains’ fit.  Harvard Health Publishing reports on research with mice and humans that show “brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells, developing neurological ‘plasticity’ and building up a functional reserve that provides a hedge against future cell loss.”   

Mentally stimulating activities such as trivia and memory games, puzzles, crosswords, board and card games can help maintain brain function.  Even if you don’t have a partner to play with, many of these types of games can be found on a computer or tablet.   Reading, taking courses, drawing, painting and experimenting with things that require manual dexterity are stimulating mental gymnastics.  Other great brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities like playing an instrument or dancing.

Board games, such as chess and checkers, require counting, strategy and decision-making. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords can help to improve recall and reduce those times when you cannot get the right word out.  Another added benefit to playing games with others is companionship.    

Experts say physical activity is also necessary for good brain health as it increases the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain responsible for thought.  It encourages the development of “new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells (synapses).”   Another positive side effect of exercise is it also improves your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure, improving blood sugar balance and reducing mental stress.  Brain health is also improved with good nutrition.   Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, unsaturated oils (olive oil) and plant sources of proteins may help to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.

MorningStar of Boise offers seniors a vibrant lifestyle to help live life to the fullest. Our beautiful community has luxury amenities such as chef-inspired meals, spa bath, and fitness center along with wellness programs and activities to promote a healthy lifestyle. Contact us or visit our website for more information about the finest assisted living in Boise, ID.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to value, to invest” sets us apart from other assisted living Boise, ID has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, inviting atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Boise provides outstanding independent living.

Sources: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/12-ways-to-keep-your-brain-young