Maintaining brain health is crucial during the golden years. Most seniors are concerned about keeping issues like dementia at bay as well as boosting memory and mental clarity. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, engaging in mentally-challenging activities, and taking brain-boosting supplements can enhance mental acuity.
It is so important to stay active in order for our brains to function properly! Obviously, your brain health will never be as strong as it was when you were younger, but here are some things you can do to prevent brain health decline.
Take Care of Your Body
See your doctor regularly. Your doctor will be able to put you on a medication or vitamin regimen to take care of any illnesses or deficiencies you might have. Consult with them about any medications you’re on that you feel affect your brain function or motor skills. If your medications do slow down your brain’s ability to think quickly, your doctor can recommend different medications. If you enjoy a glass of wine or bourbon, be sure not to drink too much of it- some medications may have an opposite effect when mixed with alcohol.
Taking brain-boosting supplements can enhance mental acuity. If you have a senior loved one who is worried about brain health, add these supplements to his or her daily diet:
- Fish Oil- From protecting the heart and eyes to alleviating skin issues and mental conditions, there’s not much fish oil can’t do. Taking fish oil may also boost cognitive health. Some studies show that people who eat fish are less likely to experience a loss of brain function as they grow older.
- Zinc- Zinc plays an important role in boosting brain function. Seniors with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s often have insufficient levels of zinc in their bodies.
- Folic Acid- Taking folic acid supplements may boost memory function in the golden years.
- Ginkgo Biloba- This herbal supplement is thought to enhance eye health, alleviate blood disorders, and boost cardiovascular health.
- Curcumin- It’s thought that Curcumin reduces inflammation, lowers the risk of heart disease, prevents cancer, alleviates arthritis symptoms, and fights age-related chronic health issues. It can alleviate depression symptoms. While studies are still in progress, many scientists believe it can fight Alzheimer’s disease as well. It even increases the amount of the growth hormone required for healthy brain function.
Eat Healthy Foods
Drink plenty of water and make sure the foods you are eating are high in nutrients. Eat lean meats, fish, and poultry. The lower fatty foods will help you not feel as run down and you can be more active- which helps your brain stay on top of things. A big part of this is also the importance of portion control. Don’t overeat- but make sure you are eating enough to have the energy needed throughout the day.
Caring for older adults with nutritional deficiencies can be challenging for some family caregivers. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional caregivers, such as those you would find at Williams Loving Care.
Physical Activity
Stay Active! We’re not saying you have to physically go to the gym. We are saying you should stay active! This could be so simple as completing basic household activities! When you move around and clean, you are still using energy. Using energy is being active. A fun way to stay active is to go outside for a short walk. Being outside in nature is good for your brain, heart and soul, anyways! If you have a dog, take he or she on a walk! Staying active, no matter how small of a task, is important for your brain activity and can also help you sleep better. Getting enough sleep is vital for your brain to function and recover.
Make Sure Your Brain Stays Active
Mental stimulation counts, too! Read a new book! Or, pick up an old book and read it again! Think about it from a different perspective so it feels new to you. Assembling larger puzzles will assist your motor skills, also improving brain function. Listen to music to keep your mind busy… probably the easiest way to be active! Challenge your brain to think more. If your brain is working harder consistently, you’ll find that it will stay in the best shape possible as you’re aging.
Considering the above pointers, it’s really not that difficult to keep your brain functioning properly as you age. Be proactive and make sure you do the things you know you should be doing all along! Don’t stress yourself out over not knowing how your brain function will fare as you age. Stay active, drink plenty of water, and keep your mind busy to ensure that it’s in the best shape for your entire life!
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care from Williams Loving Care. We are here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To schedule a free consultation, give us a call at 334-5494009 today.