Exercising Your Brain

Researchers have discovered it is just as important for aging adults to stay mentally active as it is to stay physically active.  Our bodies do not only lose muscle over time but our brains can also atrophy.  The website, Everyday Health explains it as, “More specifically, your brain's cognitive reserve — its ability to withstand neurological damage due to aging and other factors without showing visible signs of slowing or memory loss — diminishes through the years.”

After extensive studies, scientists now believe that regular, targeted brain exercises can increase your brain's cognitive reserve.  Some of the best brain boosters include learning or engaging in creative activities such as playing an instrument, art, or dance.  One study involved monitoring the brain activity of 1,000 musicians during rest as well as while they were playing their instruments.  The musicians’ brains “lit up in all areas, and synapses fired at rates hundreds of times more than when resting” while playing their instruments.  Also the heightened brain activity continued for up to 12 hours after they stopped playing.

In addition mind games, puzzles and memory games are fun way to help seniors keep their brains exercised. Memory games, scrabble and crosswords help improve recall and board games typically require counting, strategy and decision-making.  

For those comfortable using a computer, there are many games specifically designed to improve memory.  At MorningStar of Sparks, we have a computer available in our Library as well as offer the revolutionary “It’s Never 2 Late” technology. This state-of-the-art engagement system combines touchscreen computers with intuitive, picture-based software and has a library of over 3,000 choices of things to do and explore.

Another good brain exercise is learning a new language.  Reading also can open doors to places that seniors may be unable to travel to and can heighten imagination and introduce new ideas. 

Please visit MorningStar of Sparks’ website to learn more about our senior living community as well as our wellness programs and activities.  Our community has a total of 240 suites of which 128 are independent living, 80 assisted living, 32 secure suites in our Reflections Neighborhood dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Source: everydayhealth.com/longevity/mental-fitness/brain-exercises-for-memory.aspx

mindhow.com/best-brain-stimulating-activities-for-seniors/