SALISBURY SENIORS | ISSUE 21
BRAIN HEALTH
BRAIN GYM ‘Use it or lose it’. It’s a message we might hear in relation to physical strength and capabilities. But is it true for our minds? Can exercising our minds on a regular basis help retain cognitive abilities such as memory, calculation and problem solving? The answer is yes. Previously it was thought that our brains stopped developing, changing and adapting after a certain point in life. However, evidence today suggests that our brains can continue to rewire themselves throughout our lives depending on how much (or how little) we challenge and exercise them. Research has proven that exercising our brains, just like the muscles in our body, can increase neural pathways and build a defence against cognitive illnesses like dementia.
So how do we exercise our brain? It’s best to choose an activity you enjoy. While it’s good to try new things, there’s no point in forcing yourself to do a crossword or Sudoku puzzle if you’re not interested in these. Choose an activity that really engages your mind - something you can lose yourself in like a creative exercise or mathematical challenge, if that’s your style. Puzzles are not the only answer though, simply socialising with friends is a great way to get the intellectual stimulation you need for a healthy brain! If you would like a helping hand at exercising your brain, our local senior centres offer Brain Gym groups and are a great way to keep your mind active in a fun and social way. See below for details: JACK YOUNG CENTRE 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10am-12pm 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month, 10am-12pm PARA HILLS SENIOR CENTRE 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, 10am-12pm
If you have a few minutes now, grab a pen and do the quick brain workout below!
Can you unscramble the letters in each word to find ten world cities?
HAHASIGN ONERUMBLE
HAILPAIDHELP ANIMAL
ANTISAGO NOTEDMOVIE
EASIERBONUS NILTUBAS
GINJIBE PUBDATES
Find the answers on page 19. www.salisburyseniors.sa.gov.au/seniors
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