Knowledge Improvement – How to Keep Your Aging Brain Healthy
As you get older, you need to take care of your body; this includes your brain. Currently, 55 million people have some degree of dementia, which seriously affects their lives and relationships with their loved ones. Luckily, there are numerous things you can do to keep your brain as fit and healthy as possible, limiting the effects of debilitating cognitive conditions.
Today, we’ll be looking at some easy and enjoyable things you can do to improve cognitive function well into your later years.
(Also: if you’d like to know some other fun and exciting ways to keep your brain healthy and acquire new knowledge, follow this link).
Play Chess
Chess has been a popular game for hundreds of years. However, we now know chess potentially offers protection against dementia and similar cognitive issues. Researchers discovered evidence that chess may reduce brain function decline and limit the effects of dementia, thanks to its memory stimulation and demand for in-depth calculation, critical thinking, and visual-spatial skills.
Practice a New Instrument
Do you dream of being a rockstar or a virtuoso musician? Studies show that learning an instrument has many positive effects on cognitive and muscle memory. Developing your musical talent is mentally and physically stimulating, not to mention tons of fun. You may not turn into the next Jimi Hendrix overnight (and you’ll probably annoy your neighbours if you decide to learn the drums), but you’ll do wonders for your brain.
Learn Another Language
Learning a language is a great way to develop your memory and thinking skills. The parts of your brain that handle language acquisition are very flexible, and learning an additional language can strengthen your ability to focus and develop other areas of your brain.
In addition, you’ll also be well prepared for travelling to other parts of the world. If you’ve always wanted to go to a particular country, learn the language and reward yourself with a vacation once you feel comfortable conversing in the local tongue.
Reading
Reading is an inexpensive way to improve your memory and concentration. A good book can also reduce stress and be a fun yet relaxing pastime. You can read books for free if you sign up for a library card, so you don’t need to spend any money (unless you return the book late). If you’re environmentally conscious, you may prefer to download books onto a Kindle or eReader. Studies show reading slows down adverse cognitive effects as you get older.
What Else Can You Do to Keep Your Brain Healthy
As well as improving your knowledge, there are other ways you can make sure your brain stays fit and healthy. These include:
- Doing regular physical activity a few times a week.
- Sleeping eight or nine hours per night
- Avoiding smoking and only drinking alcohol occasionally (one drink per day)
- Enjoying a healthy social life
- Eating healthily (some experts suggest a Mediterranean diet (an ingredient in extra virgin olive oil reduces some of the tangles in your brain related to dementia).
Follow these mental health tips to ensure your brain stays in tip-top shape as you get older, and you’ll enjoy a much healthier brain in your twilight years.
