As we grow older, many of our cognitive functions may begin to deteriorate. This includes impairment of short-term memory, the processing speed of information, and problem-solving. It’s common for your loved one’s cognitive health to decline subtly and slowly, however, more progressive cognitive deterioration is usually a symptom of dementia, which is not a normal part of aging.
If you notice your loved ones who used to be great at math or mind games slowly taking longer than they should, it may be a sign that their cognitive health is declining. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways for your loved ones to manage and improve their cognitive ability. Here are some tips on how your elderly loved ones can improve cognitive skills.
Social Activities and Brain Training Games
One way to improve your cognitive health is to keep socially active. This means participating in social activities regularly such as attending church groups or helping out in schools. By doing so, it can successfully retain and improve your cognitive health. Motivation and moderate physical activity are necessary when being socially active, both of which are helpful for your cognitive health.
You can also improve your cognitive health through playing leisure activities or games such as chess. Games like this require you to use your thinking skills which can potentially increase your memory span. Other games you could try are crossword puzzles or sudoku.
Physical Activity
Participating in physical activities can help to boost blood flow and oxygen levels throughout the body, including the brain. According to research, those who walked more are less likely to experience cognitive decline 5 to 10 years later. Those who engaged in the most physical exercise have a 20 percent lower chance of cognitive decline and dementia.
Mild movement such as brisk walking or gardening can help offset some of the negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle.
Nutrition and Diet
Consuming the right amount of nutrition and diet has been reported to have a significant impact on cognitive health in younger or middle-aged individuals. This includes following the ‘Mediterranean diet,’ which consists primarily of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish (omega 3), with little red meat, refined grains, and sugar. These diets are high in nutrients, minerals, and vitamins and have neuroprotective properties.
Some studies show how vitamin supplements and antioxidants can improve general cognitive health. This includes Vitamin B6 and B12 which helps lower homocysteine levels, a vascular disease marker linked to cognitive decline and dementia.
For antioxidants, Vitamins C and E can help minimize vascular inflammation and may be used to slow cognitive decline, particularly in intermediate memory.
Choose Memory Care at Discovery Village At Boynton Beach
Finding a retirement community with personalized care for your loved ones? At Discovery, we offer SHINE® Memory Care program where we provide you with an individualized, holistic treatment plan for your loved ones suffering from dementia or other memory-related diseases. With our various amenities and exclusive senior living programs, you will be able to get the care you need while living your best life! To learn more, do contact us today.
