Taking certain supplements and following a healthy diet can promote improved brain function. Still, another great way to keep your cognitive skills sharp is through mental exercises and educational programs for seniors. At Buckner Retirement Services, brain exercises for seniors help our residents stay sharp and focused. Learn more about mental exercises for seniors by calling Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182.
The Importance of Staying Mentally Sharp
As seniors age, it’s important to maintain their mental sharpness. Studies have found that keeping the brain active in elders can not only slow down the cognitive decline associated with aging but also can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Not only that, but a study one study found that mentally stimulating activities can lead to a longer life expectancy.
Staying cognitively healthy can also improve daily life, allowing seniors to continue living independently and completing daily tasks like:
- Maintaining financial accounts
- Making healthy decisions
- Handling household chores and errands
- Keeping track of appointments and medications
- Cooking meals and shopping for groceries
Thankfully, there are some fun exercises to help seniors remain cognitively active. At Buckner Retirement Services, we offer several programs and activities designed specifically to stimulate the mind of our residents and keep them engaged.
5 Mental Exercises for Seniors
One of the most prominent concerns for senior adults is memory loss and cognitive decline. While these issues are common and affect most older individuals, there are certain things you can do to decrease the severity or progression of them. If you or a loved one are looking to ward off memory loss and cognitive decline, practicing brain exercises for seniors is an excellent way to start.
1. Puzzles
Puzzles are an excellent way for seniors to keep their cognitive skills sharp. Popular puzzles for seniors include jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, and more. Putting together a jigsaw puzzle is challenging because both memory and problem-solving skills are needed to place the correct pieces properly. Crossword puzzles are a great option because they require memory, spelling, vocabulary, and reasoning skills.
Other types of puzzles that can boost senior adults’ mental acuity include:
- Math puzzles
- Rubik’s Cubes
- Mechanical puzzles
- Sudoku
- Logic puzzles
To make puzzles a more entertaining activity, they can be completed alongside friends and family at any group gathering. Many excellent puzzles for seniors or people of all ages can be found at your local bookstore or anywhere games and publications are sold.
2. Word Searches
Word searches make great brain exercises for seniors because they require the use of several different skills. Completing a word search requires an individual to employ spelling, vocabulary, and visual skills all at the same time. This not only helps senior adults maintain their vocabulary skills, but it can also help keep their vision sharp.
3. Computer Applications
For many senior adults, keeping up with technological progress is a priority. This is why computer applications are a great way for residents to exercise their minds while learning to operate modern technology. Many educational programs for seniors specifically focus on learning how to use computers and other technological devices. Certain computer applications or online activities allow seniors to master the latest advances in technology while sharpening any number of cognitive skills.
4. Trivia Games
Trivia games are good mental exercises for seniors because they build their sense of memory and recall. One of the most exciting things about playing trivia games is that you can choose particular categories that you or your loved ones are interested in to encourage participation and a competitive spirit.
The best way to incorporate trivia games as a mental exercise is by setting a weekly schedule for the seniors in your life to play. This will double as both a cognitive exercise and beneficial group activity.
5. Arts and Crafts
A popular activity for senior adults is partaking in arts and crafts. Creating artwork or crafting allows seniors to express and explore their creativity while sharpening their cognitive skills. Activities like painting or sculpture require fine motor skills and attention to detail. This helps senior adults maintain their mental acuity while participating in a fun and engaging hobby.
Discover Cognitive Exercises for Seniors at Buckner Retirement Services
Are you looking for mental exercises for seniors to help the loved ones in your life maintain their cognitive health? Buckner Retirement Services provides brain exercises for residents, including educational programs, arts and crafts, and more recreational programs for seniors. To find out more about these cognitive health amenities, contact Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182.