Brain health often deteriorates with the aging process, but the decline is not inevitable in all cases. By taking a few simple steps, you can keep your brain healthy and alert as you enter your golden years.
Although Alzheimer's disease can affect anyone, scientific studies suggest that the onset can be delayed by keeping the brain active. The brain needs exercise, just like any other part of the body. There are several ways to exercise the brain, and they should be combined to get the greatest possible benefit. Assisted living services may be able to help you or a loved one to use these strategies to protect your brain.
Stay Physically Active
Physical exercise boosts blood flow to the brain, which means that brain cells receive all the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy. Many older people turn away from exercise because they have physical aches or pains, or because they suffer from a lack of mobility caused by arthritis, rheumatism, or other conditions. However, there are exercises that are suitable for older people, such as yoga, tai chi, and walking. To give yourself or your older relative a chance to get active, look out for physical activities scheduled by assisted living services in your local area.
Stay Mentally Active
Brain-stimulating activities such as puzzles, games, and educational classes give the brain a workout. Research suggests that the more an area of the brain is used, the harder the body works to keep the neurons in that brain region healthy and connected. Highly educated people have a higher average age of onset of Alzheimer's than those who gave up learning early in life.
Stay Connected
Socializing exercises the areas of the brain associated with speech, emotion, and memory, which can be affected by Alzheimer's disease. Sadly, many elderly people feel isolated in their own homes. If this applies to you or your relative, you could look into residential facilities for assisted living in Connecticut. Living alongside others of the same peer group offers many opportunities for socialization. Retirement living facilities are a great option for the elderly who want to engage with others and get involved in a community.
Key Takeaways:
- Stay physically active - physical exercise boosts blood flow to the brain.
- Stay mentally active - exercising the brain through puzzles, games or adult education could help to delay the onset of Alzheimer's.
- Stay connected - socializing is one of the most enjoyable ways of keeping the brain healthy.
Need Help?
If you're interested in learning more about assisted living in Connecticut, contact us today.