3 minute read
Ways to keep mentally fit
Mental activity is really important as you get older because you are more susceptible to cognitive decline and mental health issues.
Keeping your mind engaged through activities that challenge and interest you is an excellent way to stay mentally fit as you age.
Study
Having a purpose is vital during your retirement, and studying is a great way to test your memory, learn new skills, and open up your mind to new ideas and concepts. Read more about Finding Purpose in retirement on page 23.
Video games
Not just activities for the young, there is proven evidence to suggest that videogames are fantastic for young and old to keep their mind engaged. A recent study has actually shown that regular ‘gaming’ can slow down the progression or improve the cognitive ability of an individual with dementia.
Music
Music is a great way to keep yourself mentally active. Why not develop your musical side and start learning a new instrument, take singing lessons or join a local choir or band?
Brain training apps
Mobile phones have allowed for the creation of brain training apps. You can test out your own mental abilities with short little problemsolving games or see how you are ranking against other people in your age group. Brain exercises are also known as “neurobics”.
Exercise
Funnily enough, physical exercise can have a really positive impact on your mental health. Going for a walk or run also jogs your memory!
Games and puzzles
Often, people associate crosswords and sudoku with older people, but these games are actually great for improving and maintaining cognitive abilities.
Journal
Start a diary or gratitude journal to write down your thoughts and feelings or something you are grateful for each day. Keeping a journal can be a great outlet for releasing pent-up feelings and emotions as a way to free up negative energy and remind you of the small things in life you have to be grateful for.
Socialise
Already, older people have a higher likelihood of facing loneliness and isolation, this can severely impact your mental health and cognitive abilities. Getting out and seeing family and friends is a really great way to boost your mood and make you feel good. We are social creatures after all.
Try new things
One way to keep your brain active is to try new things as it helps build brain cells and connections. It can be as simple as breaking up your routine, taking a walk in a different neighbourhood, trying new foods or doing regular tasks a different way.
Sleep well
A good night’s sleep can do wonders for the body and mind. Older people should get around seven to eight hours of sleep a night so your mind has time to repair. A night of good sleep is a key component of keeping your memory in top condition.
No stress, no worries
Stress can have a very real effect on your mental health. It’s important to minimise any stress you may experience where you can. Meditation can be a great way of being more thoughtful and in tune with yourself. These are only a few examples of ways to stay mentally fit. There are many other activities you can do to slow down the mind and help you think more clearly, and they don’t have to take up much time. A couple of minutes each day can make all the difference.
Keeping your mind healthy is important for your overall wellbeing, especially as you age.
Taking preventative measures now may minimise your chances of developing a mental illness or cognitive decline later in life.
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