Even if our bodies need assistance with walking sticks or high-quality mobility scooters, our brains have the capacity to strengthen and we can reduce the signs of ageing. Neuroplasticity is our brain’s ability to develop with new learning and experiences; throughout our lifetime, our mind will continue to go through this development process.
There are a lot of negative associations with ageing and many people feel a need to reduce the symptoms as well as pressure to stay fitter and healthier for longer. However, age should be something to be celebrated and appreciated, as with it comes a greater knowledge and outlook on life.
In this blog, we take a look at some simple ways to care for your brain to help keep it fresh and ready to learn new things.
Ageing
Cognitive ageing refers to the developments and changes in our cognitive abilities as we age, and this varies from person to person. However, as we develop from infancy to adulthood, our bodies and mind go through a multitude of changes, which are usually embraced when we are younger.
Getting older, we can expect several differences in the way our brains work. Common changes include slower processing speed and reduced abilities in our working memory which can cause issues.
It is established in current society that poor memory is just part and parcel of getting old; however, this could be detrimental shared viewpoint to have as it discourages people from investigating the changes in their cognition. With such focus on the negative changes age brings to our mind the positive ones are often overlooked.
An Older Brain is Different
As we get older, our level of wisdom and knowledge increases, with our knowledge becoming useful in late adulthood. It has also been shown that as we age, our levels of happiness can peak as our capacity for appreciations and happiness increase, while stress and anxiety will tend to decrease.
Try Something New
Older adults who participate in new learning experiences are shown to be healthy ones, as this strengthens cognitive abilities. Healthier, older individuals all tend to share the same characteristics which include high energy and activity levels, regular exercise, balanced diet, lower cases of chronic medical conditions, have regular check-ups and a pleasant and diverse social life.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise can have a significant number of benefits for you, including the release of endorphins that improve mood and studies have shown that moderate physical activity can improve your cognitive abilities.
Exercise guides and plans can help you organise the best route for you and your needs.
For some accessible activities in and around North Devon, take a look at 2020 Activities for Seniors.
Reducing Risks
Reducing the risk of diseases is a great way to manage your health as you get older. Exercising regularly, as advised by your doctor, and eating a healthy, balanced diet can be some of the most effective ways to manage your health. Other techniques include managing stress, regular engagement in activities that boost your mood, meditation and practising a positive outlook.
Reviewing Your Health
Self-managing your health can be an effective way of managing a healthy mind. Understanding how your physical health may affect your brain can be the first steps to preventing damaging ageing processes.
Eating Brain Foods
Similarly, it is important to care for yourself when it comes to diet. Did you know certain foods can help to improve mental tasks, including concentration and memory? Try and include some of these foods into your regular diet:
· Fatty Fish
· Blueberries
· Broccoli
· Pumpkin seeds
· Eggs
Maintaining a Good Social Life
Maintaining a good social life in older age can be an effective way to keep your mind healthy and happy. Joining a club that relates to a hobby or passion can be a great way to learn something while making new friends.
Getting a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep helps our brains recover after the day and can promote overall wellbeing. The amount of time we need to sleep fluctuates depending on age, and according to sleepeducation.org, older adults should be aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
It is clear to see that a few simple lifestyle choices can have a positive impact on your health and wellbeing as you age. Remember that a little self-care can go a long way.