No matter your age, it’s never too early to begin the fight against dementia. The good news is that it’s easier than you might think. The better news is that there are all kinds of ways to do it, no matter what your interests are! Here are just a few ways you can make the most of your mental workout:
If you’re active (or want to be), combine physical and mental workouts.
Physical exercise is a vital component to total health, and it can even have positive effects on your mental wellness. If you’re already an active person or want to start getting more exercise, combine your efforts! Try going for a walk in the park and issuing yourself mini challenges: how many trees have moss — now what’s the percentage? The ratio of moss to barren trees? If you’re more on the creative side, find objects in nature and find the most accurate color: is that bird in the tree periwinkle, or is it more of a deep sapphire? Maybe it reminds you of the color of the ocean, or of a favorite piece of clothing from long ago. Try thoughtful and engaging challenges.
If you’re bored, play a game.
Some people enjoy having an activity to do every afternoon, evening, or in whatever spare time they find throughout the day. There are lots of card games you can play that can boost memory, require strategic thinking, and many require basic addition and math skills. You can play a game of memory or solitaire on your own or invite some friends over for a group game. Board games are another great option if you have plenty of people to play, but cards tend to be an easier, more portable option.
If you’re a problem-solver, try a puzzle.
Classic jigsaws are a fun, quiet way to work your brain, and like cards they can be done on your own or with loved ones. If dexterity is a problem, there are easier versions you can play online or on a tablet. If sudoku is more of your style, you can find endless options online, and often in local and national newspapers. Try to devote a little time each day, even if it’s just 15 minutes on the puzzle every afternoon.
If you’re on the curious side, learn something new.
For many people, learning is the greatest experience of them all. You probably have a giant list of things you’ve been meaning to research, skills you’ve wanted to acquire, and interests you’ve wanted to pursue. So try one! Maybe you want to learn another language, or take an art class down the street. Even taking a class at a local college could be a great way to get a fresh lesson, and local community centers might offer free or low-cost options.
If you’re adventurous, try a completely foreign experience.
Maybe you’ve always been a thrill-seeker, or after a lifetime of being cautious you’re ready to break out of your comfort zone. Research has shown that you can get maximum mental benefits if you become open to new experiences. Try going to an art show of someone you’re unfamiliar with or sampling a new cuisine. If there’s a cultural fair, grab a friend and go explore as much as you can. If you have the means, traveling is another great way to expand your cognitive horizons and boost your mental health.
Any combination of these techniques can be beneficial, so start with what will be easiest to work into your schedule. From there, you can make adjustments on what activities you enjoy, trips you want to take, or even nightly activity nights you want to hold. Keep challenging yourself, and your brain will thank you for it!
About George Mears
George Mears is a brain fitness expert whose major area of interest is how brain exercises like games, puzzles, and memory activities help people to minimize the brain health deterioration that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Brainwellness.info