Kids shouldn’t have all the fun of capturing that familiar “back to school” feeling. Research proves it’s great for people to keep learning at any age.
Here’s five ways seniors can keep their minds sharp this fall.
1. Play Games
Yes! Using play to stimulate the brain is totally ok. Games like Sudoku, solitaire or even trivia with the grandkids can help to keep the mind active and healthy. Try an app like Kami for an experience that’s both challenging and beautiful!
2. Take a Class
Many community colleges and even universities offer free or low-cost classes for seniors. Re-take an Intro to English Lit class or maybe something out of your wheelhouse, like an art or math class. You never know what you might learn!
3. Pick up (or Listen to) an Instrument
You might be rusty on those keys or strings, but playing an old song or learning a new one is extremely helpful in keeping the mind active. Don’t play an instrument? Listen to a new type of music or re-introduce yourself to masters like Mozart or Coltrane.
4. Sing!
Whether you can carry a tune or not, singing is a great way to challenge the brain. Learning new music or even harmonizing helps to keep those synapses firing. Plus, it’s a great social activity which can introduce you to new friends or keep you in touch with old ones.
5. Readin’, ‘Ritin’, ‘Rithmatic
Many neurologists point back to the “3 Rs” to keep the brain healthy and sharp. Pick up a new book (if eye sight is a problem, try an app like Audible), write down thoughts in a journal or pen a short story, and do sums in your head.
Each of these tactics can also be quite relaxing after a long day, so turn on some quiet music and read or write away!
No matter how you or your loved one chooses to embrace the back to school spirit, remember that a healthy mind is an active mind. So do what you can to take on a new challenge this fall!
At Generations Senior Living, we treat each person like family. Learn more about our active senior communities in the Cleveland, Ohio area.