We are all aware of the impacts that time has on us; ageing. We have also been told that health is wealth. The key to longevity is a combination of healthy lifestyle and nutrition. This aging can affect an elderly’s brain and its functionality. Experts state that in the case of cognitive intelligence, if you do not use it, you might lose it. Healthy ageing is a lifestyle change that can be incorporated by everyone. The key here is to keep yours ticking over.
If you know someone or are yourself going through this phase, the following hobbies might help you keep your mind sharp.
1. Healthy Ageing with Colouring
An excellent creative outlet, colouring has been shown to help with goal setting, self-expression and positivity. It does not matter how skilled the person is, as there are opportunities for all levels. Just give it a go. The creative process is very absorbing and rewarding and it is a great way for your elderly to relieve stress. There are a lot of art books to help you get a kick-start.
2. Exercise a little
If you engage in regular, moderate exercise you will be happier, healthier, more alert and have more energy. Studies have shown that walking an average of 6 miles a week is a sure-fire way to keep your brain active and fight off dementia. What are you waiting for? Getting into your walking shoes and keep your mind sharp as a whistle!
3. Yoga is golden
Yoga can provide many mental and physical benefits to an elderly person. From minimizing hypertension and stress to helping to strengthen bones and build balance, yoga is a great hobby for seniors. All you need is a mat and a class!
4. Maintain a healthy diet
A nutritious diet is mandatory for people of all age group. A healthy diet can help you keep your mental acuity up. As you grow older, your metabolism slows down and therefore, your body’s caloric requirements are diminished. However, your protein intake should be higher as proteins are the building blocks. Alongside, maintain your water intake in order to maintain your sharp wits at all ages.
5. Conversing with others
Conversations provide comfort. It is innate to us, to be social. Conversing with others and having a meaningful interaction can benefit a lot as it provides enough mental stimulation. Join a hobby class or have a chat with people around you.
6. Play games or healthy ageing, yes!
From playing Bridge to Scrabble, cards and games are an excellent way for seniors to keep their minds’ sharp. In fact, research has shown that adults who enjoy mentally stimulating games may have bigger brains and sharper thinking skills than their peers. Well-connected synapses in brain helps compensate for the havoc wreaked within the brain by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Critical thinking and crossword puzzles are also great ways to keep the brain fit.
You may also try other ways of keeping your mental acumen crisp at this age like listening to music, keeping a journal etc. Regardless of how you choose to keep your brain active, the most important thing to remember is to enjoy this phase of your life!
Are you someone who is going through a similar phase? Don’t worry, we have got it all covered! Unmukt Festival is a one-stop lifestyle solutions hub for Seniors. Follow us to stay updated on healthy ageing.