When we’re young and have boundless energy, staying physically fit isn’t much of a problem for most youngsters. But, as we get older, we become more aware that we have to exercise regularly to remain healthy physically. The same holds true for exercising the mind. Learning a new language or musical instrument while we were in school kept our minds limber, but as we get older, we can let our brain atrophy by not challenging ourselves mentally. Let’s look at why senior healthcare should exercise their minds and how they can go about doing it.
Why is mental stimulation necessary?
Raising a family and building a career keep adults mentally focused for decades. However, as children settle into their own lives and older adults retire, the mental stimulation they constantly experience can slow down significantly. Without adequate stimulation, cognitive skills decline, such as:
- Awareness
- Attention
- Perception
- Memory
- Reasoning
Mental stimulation can’t stop the decline of these cognitive skills, but it can slow them.
Other benefits of mental stimulation for seniors include:
It improves their overall health
The more active their mind is, the less likely it is a senior will develop mental health problems and physical disabilities. Seniors dealing with anxiety or depression find that mental stimulation reduces stress, improves their sleep, and impacts diet and habits like alcohol consumption and smoking, enhancing their overall health. In addition, mental stimulation increases the chances of a senior living a happier and longer life.
Builds their confidence
Learning new skills helps seniors feel they “still have it.” While looking back on past accomplishments is gratifying, conquering new challenges builds confidence and gives them something to look forward to every day.
Keeps them connected
Mental stimulation can be as simple as having a conversation with a family member or more complex as playing a competitive game of bridge with friends. All mental stimulation is healthy for the mind and keeps them connected with the significant people in their life. It also can lead to the development of new friendships through shared activities.
Ways to exercise the mind and stimulate cognition
There are many different ways to exercise the mind and stimulate cognition. The best way will depend on the senior’s preferences and capabilities. Some seniors can still learn to play a musical instrument or speak a new language, while many can’t.
However, there are some activities for the mind that every senior can engage in, including:
Listening to music lyrics
Listening to music and song lyrics is fun, bringing back memories that keep the mind sharp. It also produces positive feelings that are good for their mental health.
Playing board games and cards
Board games like checkers, chess, and monopoly keep the mind and brain engaged and sharp, as does playing card games like rummy or solitaire. Puzzles and dominos are also great fun for seniors and help keep their minds well-tuned.
Enjoying the arts
Many seniors love to draw and paint. Sketching and oil painting are favorite pastimes for some, while others enjoy writing stories or poetry. And, just immersing themselves in a good book works wonders for the mind.
Companion Care from Assisting Hands Home Care
The caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care serving Bedford, MA and the greater Boston Northwest area not only assist with the physical needs of our clients, like helping them with the physical activities of daily living; they also provide companion care that exercises the mind.
Our caregivers love to visit with seniors, play games with them, and spend time together listening to music and reading. If you have a senior spending a significant amount of time alone at home, contact us today. We’re here to help your loved one remain safe and comfortable in their own home.
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