As the control center of our bodies, our brain is our most important organ. Thus, we should take efforts to ensure that our brain health is well-taken care of. However, you might be wondering, how do we improve ours or our loved one’s memory? Is that even possible? Good news is that it is and there are certain ways to improve our memory. As care providers of cognitive conditions for years, we know the best ways to improve mental alertness and memory. Here’s how memory care in Suches, GA keeps residents’ mentally sharp.
Feed Your Brain
What you eat contributes to your brain health too. To keep your brain in top condition, you should eat healthy– meaning you should eat a good balance of fruits, vegetables and fish, all of which are foods that have been researched to be good for brain health. Recommended vegetables are green leafy ones like spinach and broccoli and recommended fruits would be berries as there are all rich in brain-boosting nutrients like Vitamin K and beta carotene. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fishes like sardines help preserve cognitive function.
Work Your Brain
Cognitive stimulating activities like reading, playing card and/or board games as well as doing puzzles stimulates the brain and helps enhance focus and memory. You should challenge yourself with these activities and programs that engage your cognitive skills. If your physical condition permits you to, you can up the level by doing mentally stimulating activities that also train your physical dexterity, such as painting and drawing. This will be a little added boost of stimulation for your brain.
Keep Moving
Most people think that exercise is beneficial only for our physical health, but doing some physical activity a day can also be beneficial for your cognitive health. Adults who regularly exercise have found to score higher on memory and problem-solving tests. Common exercises amongst older adults include daily walks, dance classes and golf.
Sleep Well
Sleep is important for cognitive function. Lack of sleep can affect memory and decrease concentration. Research shows that the brain removes toxins that can lead to cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s during sleep, so do get at least 7-9 hours of sleep daily to give your brain sufficient time to rest and heal.
Reduce Stress
Worry and stress can impact memory, and people who have high levels of those emotions tend to score badly on cognitive tests. Accumulated stress can also lead to other health conditions or chronic sicknesses in the long-term. You should pay attention to and care for your emotions by engaging in regular stress reducing activities such as meditation, yoga or just simply listening to music.
Stay Social
Maintaining relationships contribute just as greatly as good nutrition and regular activity does to our brain health. Having positive social connections have been linked to lowered risks of Alzheimer’s and dementia and longer life expectancy. Actively seek opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones, as well as connect with new people in church or a local community club, interest group, event or volunteering opportunity.
