For seniors 65 and over it is important for them to maintain a healthy brain to prevent memory loss. The best way for seniors to do this is to stay both mentally & physically active.
If you are caring for an aging loved one, there are several ways you can help keep your loved one mentally stimulated without making it complicated. Before we get into the different activities you can do with your loved one, here are some things to keep in mind.
In the United States, approximately 40% of people over the age of 65 experience age-related memory impairment. Memory and mental health are closely connected. Helping seniors stay sharp can also improve their quality of life. (Information Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1123445/).
We’re going to take a look at the main factors that affect memory. Because the brain is part of the body, when it comes to aging adults seniors’ physical health also affects their cognitive function, including memory. It’s important to pay close attention to the factors that affect memory. The top 3 factors are physical activity, nutrition and sleep/rest. Let’s get a bit deeper into each one:
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
As you may already know, staying physically active is good for the brain. Physical activity promotes good circulation so that your mind gets the oxygen it needs. When you make coordinated motions or follow a workout routine, your brain and your memory are both working. If you are caring for an aging loved one, it’s a great idea to incorporate some type of workout into their daily life. This could be something as simple as taking a walk in the park or around your neighborhood, going outside to do some gardening, or going for a jog (if they are able). Even playing with the grand kids at the park is a wonderful way for them to make fun memories with family while staying active. Other ideas can be taking up Tai Chi, Yoga, swimming, taking a cooking class, or something fun they can do outdoors or with a group of other seniors.
Nutrition
Our brains need fuel and research at Harvard University shows that diets high in saturated fat can inhibit memory, while a healthy diet that is rich with fish, whole grain, fruits and vegetables are good for maintaining a healthy memory. If your loved one is not getting the right amount of nutrients in their daily meals, talk to their doctor or set up an appointment with a nutritionist so that they can put together a proper diet plan for them. Ensuring that they are eating the right foods daily is a good way to keep your elder physically and mentally healthy.
Sleep & Rest
Regardless of our age, we all need proper sleep in order to function properly. A tired brain is not able to devote as much energy to making or storing memories, that’s why seniors need to get enough rest each night. If your elder is having trouble sleeping, speak with their doctor about ways you can create a good sleep routine for them.
As our brains age, we’re less likely to think as quickly or remember things as well as we used to. There are several effects of memory loss among older adults.
Seniors Can Prevent Memory Loss With These Tips
To maintain a healthy memory and prevent memory loss, seniors need to stay mentally active. This may seem to be a daunting task, but it does not have to be! There are several simple things you can do to help your aging parent or grandparent maintain a healthy memory. These steps can be easily implemented in their daily routines.
- Read and write regularly
- Try learning to play an instrument or take up a new hobby
- Take a class at a community college, university, or adult education center
- Spend time in conversation and socializing
- Play games, solve riddles, and complete puzzles
At Your Home Team Care, we believe that your elderly loved one deserves a service customized to meet their needs and our staff of highly trained caregivers are here for you. So, whether your senior loved one needs In-Home Services related to personal care or housekeeping, companion care, dementia care, respite care or nutritional care, our RN Care Manager can develop a detailed individualized care plan to meet their needs. Each care plan is reviewed with the caregiver prior to the start of care and revised periodically as needed. This compassionate and customized service is our commitment to you and your family. Please give us a call if you would like to speak to us and learn more about our services and how we can assist you.