As we grow older, it is commonplace for us to become forgetful or have “brain fog”, but there are ways to improve memory for seniors. Have you heard of neuroplasticity? It is defined as the mind’s potential to grow and improve.
Your lifestyle and the habits you pick up have a major impact on mental well-being, especially at an older age. An unhealthy diet, insufficient sleep, a lack of exercise and excessive stress for example, will affect your memory. Here are 10 habits that can help seniors to improve their memory.
Diet and Nutrition
As the popular saying goes, you are what you eat. In general, fresh, low sugar foods with high healthy fats are better for the brain. Studies have shown that fresh, leafy greens, vegetables, walnuts, and blueberries can also help improve memory power. Moderate amounts of caffeine and peppermint tea work too. If greens are not to your fancy, fret not, as curry and chocolate are also associated with memory improvement!
Exercise
It goes without saying that exercise possesses benefits not just to your body, but your mind. It doesn’t have to be intensive either. Even yoga or aerobic activities 3 or 4 times a week has potential to massively improve your mental capacity.
Dancing
Dancing benefits your mental health more that you probably realize. Difficult as it is to get those steps or moves right, when you do, your memory improves.
Sleep
Sleep is important. Alzheimer’s and sleep deprivation are known to be correlated, so please get at least 7-9 hours every night.
Napping
Don’t underestimate the power of napping. Academic research has found that cognitive performance improves when those 65 and older took an hour-long nap in the afternoon.
Reading
Going back to the classics, reading is one of the simplest ways to jog your brain. Regardless of whether you’re reading from a book or online, it works.
Master a New Skill
Is there something you want to do but haven’t got down to it? Start now! Learning a new instrument, a new language, or anything really, is cognitive stimulation that will improve your memory.
Brain Games
Exercise builds your muscle, and so in the same way, mental exercise enhances your memory and cognitive skills. Try these activities and reap the benefits!
Card and Board Games
In a similar way, card and board games like Go Fish, Mahjong or Chess can also work out those memory muscles.
Relaxation and Stress Management
In general, when we’re calm, we are able to make decisions with a clear mind and remember better. Listening to music or practicing mindfulness exercises can go a long way towards strengthening your mind.
Find Us at Conservatory At Plano
Here at Conservatory At Plano, we offer our residents a wide range of senior living programs to engage their minds and bodies. Contact us to learn more.
