Lifestyle Factors That Can Help Improve Senior Brain Health

Senior brain health is a big issue for many over the age of 65. The fear of physical limitations is a factor as you age, but an issue that is more disturbing to many is their brain health. There’s good news in that area. Lifestyle factors can slow diminishing memory and improve senior brain health. Just like physical health can be improved by exercise, exercising the brain can also provide improvements.

Start by eating healthier.

A healthy diet can make a world of difference. Your brain needs specific nutrients to function. It also needs adequate hydration. Frequently, seniors fail to cook healthy meals. They may not be mobile enough to cook, too tired, or feel it’s not worth it for just one person. Consuming adequate fruits and vegetables, such as leafy greens, blueberries, and grapes, can provide antioxidants that protect the brain. Eating fatty fish, like tuna or salmon, twice a week provides omega-3 fatty acids that protect the brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Lack of adequate hydration can also cause mild dehydration, and the symptoms can resemble dementia.

Getting more active can increase circulation and boost brain health.

Physical activity not only benefits the body, but it also benefits the mind. Aerobic/endurance training like walking or dancing, can help prevent cognitive decline in seniors. Participating in any type of activity that gets you moving, including Tai chi, yoga, or walking the shopping mall, offers benefits for your entire body, including the brain. Staying active can help lift depression, which is often mistaken for cognitive decline. You can even learn a new skill that is more active to double the effect.

Stay connected with others and socialize.

A fulfilling social life, good conversation, and talking to others stimulate the brain. Socializing after meetings with new friends, keeping in contact with old friends, or speaking with loved ones provides a connection that keeps you more alert. Finding people who bring joy into your life with conversation or companionship adds to the overall mental health benefits.

• Learning something new boosts memory improvement. It boosts the creation of new neural pathways in the brain. The term for the ability to restructure and rewire is neuroplasticity. The brain continues to develop as long as you provide the opportunities.
• Doing activities you’ve always loved also helps boost the brain. If you love reading, continue to read, the same is true for any activity that requires cognitive functioning. Staying mentally active is as vital to your brain health as staying physically active is to the rest of your body.
• Get adequate sleep. Maintain a daily schedule, including a sleep schedule. A daily routine should include specific tasks you do on certain days. The right amount of sleep each day can also reduce the risk of dementia.
• Get help when you need it. Whether it’s physical help to cook healthy meals or mental health to deal with depression, recognize when you need outside help or advice. It can keep you healthy and more independent for longer.

For more information, contact us today at LiveBetter At Home