Memory loss happens to everyone. When it does, it often seems like a part of yourself is lost with it. The good news, however, is that when it comes to the brain, you CAN teach old dogs new tricks. There are a variety of different ways seniors can keep their minds sharp as they age. Here are a few proven tricks that seniors can use to hold on to those memories!

Healthy Diet

Just like with every part of the human body, a healthy diet is crucial to improving brain function. Maintaining a high-fat diet, in particular, is one of the best ways to do this. According to a set of studies done by scientists at the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, evidence is suggesting that keto diets (high-fat, low-carb diet) may help prevent cognitive decline. This is because our brains are composed of 60% fat! This is why including healthy monounsaturated fats like nuts, olive oil, avocados, etc. in your diet can have a long-lasting effect on your brain health!

Music

Have you ever been listening to an old song you used to love and suddenly think of a memory you forgot you had? That’s because music has been found to reactivate areas of the brain associated with memory! In two different studies that looked at the link between music and memory in seniors, researchers found that “healthy elderly people scored better on tests of memory and reasoning after they had completed several weekly classes in which they did moderate physical exercise to musical accompaniment.” So, next time you’re on a jog or sitting around the house, throw on an old tune you used to love. Your brain will thank you!

Train Your Brain

Each and every year, as we age, our brains age with us. Your brain in many aspects is like a tool. We use it every day and it makes sense that it would start to dull over time. But if a tool in your garage becomes dull, you don’t lose hope and throw that tool away, right? No, you sharpen it! Just like that tool, it’s important that as we age, we sharpen our minds with reading and brain games like Sudoku and Scrabble. A recent study done by Archives of Neurology found that “…people who kept their brains active most of their lives by reading, writing, completing crossword puzzles, or playing challenging games were a lot less likely to develop brain plaques that are tied to Alzheimer’s disease.” Looking to keep your brain sharp? Check out this website for a variety of fun, yet challenging brain games!

Hit the Gym

This one should be no surprise. Simply changing or adding a workout regimen to your schedule can fix a number of ailments, memory being one of them! Not only does exercise positively effect the brain directly (reducing insulin resistance, reducing inflammation, etc.), but exercise also results in benefits like better sleep and reduced stress and anxiety, all which contribute to brain health. No matter what form of exercise you choose, you’ll be giving your brain a much needed boost!

Social Interaction

It seems like the older we get, the smaller our social circle becomes. Whether that’s due to moving to a new place, family moving out of the home, or simply losing touch with old friends, it can seem like a daunting task to make new friends. Although it may be tough, increasing social interaction at an older age can have tremendous benefits for your brain! Recent studies have shown that increased social interaction can actually protect against cognitive decline. Looking for a way to boost your social interaction in your golden years? A few great ways to do this are to join clubs, volunteer, or trying out a senior living community!

At The Wellington Senior Living, we know the importance that social interaction and healthy lifestyle choices has on brain health and memory. That’s why we make it a priority to schedule outings and events that promote social interaction and exercise. If you or a loved one are interested in a senior living community that supports a healthy lifestyle for their resident’s, don’t hesitate to give us a call!