Brain Exercises That Will Keep Your Mind Sharp

As you age, sticking to an exercise routine is really important for staying healthy, strong, and flexible. But we’re not only talking about physical fitness; your brain needs regular exercise in order to function at its best, too. In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, keeping your brain active not only increases its vitality, it can also protect against Alzheimer’s disease because the brain cells and their connections are stronger.

Of course, your brain isn’t capable of performing the same activities you do in yoga class or at the gym. So, what does “exercising your brain” actually entail? When it comes to keeping your mind healthy and strong, it’s less about physical activity and more about remaining curious, involved, and committed to lifelong learning. 

The good news is you don’t have to go back to school or read a set of Encyclopedias to boost your brainpower. The following brain exercises are great ways to keep your mind sharp as you age.

Be social

Research shows that an active social life may delay memory loss among older adults. To widen your social circle, join a knitting club, participate in yoga classes, or sign up for group outings. By doing things you love, you’ll meet other people with similar interests. The more joys you can share with others, the better quality of life you’ll enjoy well into your golden years.

Get enough exercise

We mentioned earlier that keeping your mind sharp is more about mental stimulation, but there’s a strong link between physical and cognitive health that’s worth mentioning. Yoga is a terrific exercise for aging adults, as it keeps you flexible and builds strength through low-impact moves. You may also choose to develop a personal fitness plan with your primary care physician to keep your mind sharp.

Drink a lot of water

If you’re feeling groggy or tired, it may be because your brain is craving water. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to help boost your energy and keep your mind alert. To make drinking water more enjoyable, we suggest putting your favorite fruits in a pitcher and allowing the flavors to steep in water overnight. The next day, you’ll have beautiful drinking water infused with nutrients.

Learn a new language

If you’re really up for a challenge, consider learning to speak a foreign language. Perhaps you picked up a little bit of French in your younger days and want to refresh your memory. Or, if you’ve always wanted to travel to Spain, teach yourself a few basic words and phrases in Spanish. The process is cognitively challenging for most people, but it can also be rewarding and fun.

We love our guests!

At Bella Vista Health Center, our resident services and programs provide all the mental stimulation you need to keep your mind sharp. From yoga classes, to knitting clubs, to birthday celebrations and everything in between, we offer a variety of activities to raise your spirits in a safe, comfortable setting.

If you’re looking for a skilled nursing facility for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to visit our five-star nursing facility in Lemon Grove. We think you’re going to like what you see.