subject: Keeping Your Mind Active [print this page] Keeping Your Mind Active Keeping Your Mind Active
If you have trouble remembering what your wife asked you to pick up at the supermarket or feel a slow mental decline creeping up on you, then what you are experiencing at your age is perfectly natural. In your sixties and seventies, you realize that you no longer have the sharp, alert mind that you possessed in your 20's and 30's. The effects of old age on your body and mind cannot be prevented, but you can lead a normal, healthy life just as easily. All you have to do is keep your mind active and exercise your brain cells as often as you can, even when you are only sitting at home.
Play mentally stimulating games
One of the simplest ways of keeping your mind active is to play board games such as scrabble or solve puzzles that appear in your newspaper. Sudoku is a great puzzle game to work those brain cells. Research shows that those who are more mentally engaged in their 40's and 50's are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease when compared to those who are not as intellectually active.
Learn something new
There are many ways by which you can boost your brain's cognitive functions, even if you are enjoying a life of retirement. You can learn a new (foreign) language or learn to play a musical instrument. Try new hobbies such as painting, pottery or web designing. Sign up as a volunteer with your local charity and interact with people around you as often as possible. If you can work in a part-time capacity or as a consultant, try that too.
Keep yourself physically fit
To remain mentally agile, indulge in physical activities like biking, jogging and even dog walking. Refresh your mind as often as you can by performing a physical activity you enjoy, from building a tree-house for your grandchildren to something simple as mowing the lawn.
Eat healthy
It is also important to pay attention to your diet. Poor nutrition and excessive alcohol drinking can cause dementia and other mental disorders. Keep your alcohol consumption in check and give up smoking. Eat a healthy and balanced diet, one that is rich in anti-oxidants. If your family has a history of Alzheimer's, then you should consult your doctor for suggestions on how you can prevent getting affected by the condition.
Socialize
Socializing stimulates your brain, contributes to increased memory capacity and keeps your mind agile. Keep your brain active by socializing with friends, relatives and neighbors. Get in touch with old colleagues or join a club of your choice, where you are bound to meet lots of people. You can also consider making new friends online, on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.
