Brain Exercises For the Elderly

While receiving home nursing care in Chesterfield, there are many fun things a senior can do. And, some of these activities can also be beneficial in improving and maintaining brain function.

Puzzles are both entertaining and beneficial to mental health and cognitive function. It’s an activity that doesn’t require many materials, can be done alone or with a companion, and exercise the brain in various ways. Studies show mixed results and opinions on whether puzzles do make an actual difference concerning dementia, Alzheimer’s, etc. Regardless of the science behind it, puzzles are fun and though the lasting effects are unknown, at least for the time being, it can keep the brain feeling sharp and add confidence.

Sudokus

These Japanese puzzles are fun and usually done alone. One has to use a combination of memory and logic in order to solve the puzzle and complete the grid it is played on. Sticking to the appropriate difficulty levels (at least in the beginning) will build confidence and avoid frustration and discouragement.

Jigsaws

When these come in such beautiful varieties, there is definitely a satisfaction to be felt when completed. This is thought by some to help with visual perception and recognition. It can be very relaxing and fun to do alone or with a companion.

Crosswords

Contrary to popular opinion, there have been no concrete evidence or studies to suggest that doing crosswords have a positive effect on decreased cognitive function that is age-related. However, one study suggested that those who did crosswords regularly often had less of a decline in memory and perception speed.

Learning a language is suggested as a very positive way to strengthen the mind. Besides the reward of gaining knowledge one didn’t have before, the act of learning something new requires focus, concentration, memory, logic, and various other cognitive functions that may or may not decline with age. By using all of these different areas of the brain to work on one skill, this activity would make sense as the most effective way to exercise the brain.

Social interaction combats depression and loneliness, but can also be important in maintaining cognitive abilities like memory. A range of interaction across different groups of friends, family, and strangers will help seniors keep a strong foundation of support, clear speech, and improve overall quality of life. Friends can be found anywhere in Macomb, through local events and activities, shared hobbies, or when receiving nursing care at home. This one is good for the brain and the heart.