Have you heard of the term “Use it or lose it”, well that can be applied to the memory. Studies have shown that as people age, they can have more difficulty with short and/or long term memories.
By exercising the brain, you can boost memories and keep the brain healthy.
Below are some ideas on how to keep the brain active –
Sleep – Sleep has an important part to play in many aspects of life and this includes brain function. Lack of sleep can increase brain fog and disconnection. Medication can also play havoc with ones sleep with side effects such as insomnia. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing sleep difficulties.
Memory prompts – Do you find it hard to remember daily things? Leaving memory prompts around the home can help keep your brain actively remembering and repeating key information. Such as –
- Sticky notes with key information
- Photos and names of key people
- Weekly planner of routine
Keep Learning – Mental stimulation is key to brain health. There are many fun and exciting ways to do this, including crossword, puzzles, board and card games, or even reading a good book.
For those with a smartphone or tablet, there are lots of brain-training apps and games that can be fun.
Even just ten minutes a day can support your brain’s health and is a great boredom buster.
Eat Healthy – A healthy diet can help preserve cognitive function and even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
A healthy diet consists of fruits and vegetables; whole grains; lean meats, fish, and poultry; and low-fat or nonfat dairy products. Be careful to limit solid fats, sugar, and salt.
Keep active – Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. No one expects you to be running marathons but there are some simple in-home activities you can do to keep the body moving.
The NHS has a great guide on some ideas to fit this into your daily life; simple things like getting up to make a cup of tea, doing some dusting, gentle yoga or even visiting a neighbour can all help.
Although there are no clinically proven ways to reverse the course of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s, actively supporting your brain’s health may help combat the normal, age-related mental decline.
So get brain training today!
Our team at Papillon Home Care are able to support you with daily tasks and can help set up memory prompts, ask our team today.
