Adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can help prevent age-related memory loss, and help ward off Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia. The brain is capable of producing new cells at any age, so it’s never too late to improve your cognitive skills. Like your muscles, you need to work out your brain to maintain its strength. Try the following tips for maintaining your mental vitality.
Keep active—physically, socially and mentally. More than 60% of seniors don’t exercise, according to surveys by the Centers for Disease Control. Exercise invigorates the brain by promoting neuron formation in the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for some aspects of memory. Aerobic exercise reduces levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone that can damage the brain over time. It’s important to keep socially active to challenge the brain, and form new mental connections. Keep active in your community, visit with friends or join a senior center. Keep your mind stimulated with games like Scrabble, Tetris or Sudoku. Maintain your current hobbies, and don’t be afraid to try something new, whether it’s knitting, gardening, dancing or aqua aerobics.
The Visiting Angels website (www.visitingangels.com) offers useful resources for caregivers. For more information on Alzheimer’s or dementia, or to discuss if a home care agency is the best option for your loved one’s needs, call Visiting Angels at 800-365-4189.
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