Maintaining brain health becomes more and more important as the years pass by. Fortunately, seniors can do things daily that can greatly enhance memory, cognitive function, and general mental health. With companion care at home providers by their side, they can be encouraged to incorporate these things into their daily lives and receive the support they need.
Physical Activity Is Key
Engaging in regular physical activity is good not only for the body but also for the brain. Exercise improves cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain, encouraging new neuron development.
What to do: Seniors should make it a goal to exercise moderately for at least 30 minutes every day of the week. Tai chi, swimming, and walking are all great options that are easy on the joints and offer a lot of advantages.
Benefits to the brain: Benefits from physical activity include a decreased chance of cognitive decline, enhanced memory, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.
Keep Learning
Introducing new information and experiences to the brain keeps it stimulated and involved. There are many ways to learn throughout our lives, such as by reading books or picking up new interests. Companion care at home can give seniors the encouragement they need to try new things and keep learning each day.
What to do: Seniors might consider learning an instrument, joining a book club, or trying a new language. They can also work on crossword and Sudoku puzzles each day to enhance their problem-solving skills.
Benefits to the brain: Improved neuroplasticity, improved cognitive reserve, and postponed development of symptoms associated with dementia are all benefits seniors receive when they focus on continued learning.
Keep Socializing
Social connections are essential to mental wellness. They have been shown to elevate mood, reduce stress, and enhance mental processes.
What to do: Seniors can be encouraged to join a club or group that interests them, stay in touch with friends and family, and take part in community events.
Benefits to the brain: Seniors who socialize more tend to reduce their risk of depression and improve their memory.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
The body and brain are reset at night, which requires a good night’s sleep. Inadequate or poor-quality sleep can have a detrimental effect on cognitive abilities and raise the risk of dementia.
What to do: Seniors should try to get 7 to 9 hours of good sleep per night. If napping during the day is an issue, companion care at home can remind seniors how this might affect their sleep.
Benefits to the brain: Better emotional regulation, improved memory, and a lower chance of cognitive deterioration are all benefits of getting better rest.
Maintain Hydration
Memory problems, disorientation, and poor concentration can result from dehydration. Maintaining proper brain function requires adequate hydration.
What to do: Seniors should sip water throughout the day, not just when they’re eating. The rule of thumb is to drink at least eight glasses of water or more if they live in a hot area or are physically active.
Benefits to the brain: Increased focus, a happier mood, and greater cognitive function are all benefits seniors will enjoy when they stay hydrated.
With the help of companion care at home, seniors may greatly improve cognitive abilities, maintain a better quality of life as they age, and improve their brain health by adopting some of the tips above.
Sources: https://otterbein.org/blog/6-tips-to-maximize-brain-health
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/hearing-aids/cognitive-health/
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home Services in Rancho Santa Fe CA, please call the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Canaan Home Care – A Premier Provider of Senior Home Care in the La Jolla, Del Mar, San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, and Manhattan Beach areas.
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