ACTIVITIES THAT EXERCISE THE BRAIN
Although many factors are involved in the development of dementias and cognitive decline, Alzheimer’ s disease or other neurodegenerative illnesses are not inevitable as one gets older. But it is understandable why so many adults make brain health a priority. People of all ages can benefit from incorporating activities that exercise the brain into their daily lives.
LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE Speaking a new language opens up new opportunities for travel and socialization and also strengthens the brain. This enhanced connectivity might play a role in delaying the onset of dementias, according to researchers.
LEARN NEW SKILLS Trying something new might stimulate the brain in ways that improve its function. A cognitively demanding skill, such as photography, playing an instrument and other activities could enhance memory function.
TAKE DANCING CLASSES The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that dancing might help combat Alzheimer’ s disease by improving blood circulation throughout the body. It also forces a person’ s memory and processing speed to work at a higher capacity through learning the choreography.
USE ALL OF YOUR SENSES A 2014 study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience indicated doing activities that simultaneously engage each of the five senses can strengthen the brain. Working memory and recall were higher for multi-sensory interactions. Baking a batch of cookies is an example of a multisensory experience.
WORK ON PUZZLES Crossword puzzles, word searches, word games, and brain teaserlike puzzles are entertaining and work the brain. Research has shown that doing jigsaw puzzles recruits cognitive abilities and is a protective factor for cognitive aging.
SOCIALIZE WITH OTHERS Socializing with other people can stimulate attention and memory. This helps to strengthen neural networks in the brain that makes the brain work harder. This increase in mental activity can pay off in the long run.
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