A strong memory depends entirely on the health of your brain. Whether you’re a student battling through a college program, an employee trying to balance the world on your shoulders, or a senior looking to preserve your memory, brain exercises are a simple way to keep the mind sharp.
As one of the leading post-acute facilities in Southern California, South Coast Post Acute offers premiere memory care services. We work closely with our patients to ensure their minds and bodies are healthy. There are many fun, engaging exercises you can partake in, but here are a few to get you started.
Start Your Brain Exercise with Meditation
According to National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, meditation may benefit the brain by slowing down aging and increasing its ability to process information. This is primarily because people who meditate focus their attention in a calm, controlled way. It allows you to take the time and take things slow and remember memories, relax your mind, and just be in the moment.
Play Visually Appealing Games
A 2017 study found a correlation between playing games and a decreased risk of cognitive impairment in seniors. Playing board games or card games is a fun way for people to socialize with their family and friends and pass the time. Additionally, these games give the person a chance to recall and share old memories with those around them.
Also, memory card games are an excellent way to test a person’s short-term memory and ability to remember patterns. This type of brain exercise is a simple and engaging way to ensure the brain is properly worked and functional.
Crossword Puzzles Offer Incredible Brain Exercises
Crossword puzzles are a popular activity that stimulates the brain. They help people recall words that they wouldn’t normally use to complete a challenging puzzle. A study from the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society in 2011 found that crosswords may even delay the onset decline in people with preclinical dementia.
Not Into Words? Try Sudoku
Not all of us are good at crossword puzzles, but some love figuring out number puzzles. Sudoku can be a fun way to challenge the brain while improving your cognitive function. A study from 2019 found adults aged between 50 and 93 found those who practice number puzzles tended to have a better cognitive function.
Socializing is an Everyday Brain Exercise
While it may not seem like it at first, socializing is a brain exercise. Enjoying the company of friends and family can be an engaging leisure activity and help preserve cognitive function. Last year, we wrote an article on how reminiscing has a positive impact on one’s memory health. The holidays are a fantastic time to reminisce and engage with old memories with your loved ones.
Take Up New Hobbies
A 2014 study of older adults found that learning a new and cognitively demanding skill can enhance one’s memory function. Medical News Today shares some engaging hobbies that can act as brain exercises. This includes:
- Photography
- Quilting
- Learning a musical instrument
- Drawing
- Dancing
- Painting
And much more
South Coast Post Acute Is Happy To Help With Your Brain Exercises
South Coast Post Acute is one of Southern California’s top-tier post-acute facilities with a specialty in memory care. Our memory care services are designed to engage patients who are experiencing trouble with their cognitive abilities. Additionally, we’re able to help patients recover from serious injuries that may have affected their brain function. To achieve this, we focus on three aspects of care: diet, customized medications, and effective care techniques. Contact us today to learn more about our services.