We all want to age gracefully. We’ll do just about anything to do it. From eating for heart health to deciding which exercises to focus on or improving vision, most people know that maintaining many aspects of physical health is crucial for longevity. What you might not think about regularly is your brain fitness as you age.
Cognition declines over time due to several factors, such as age-related structure changes, brain injuries or excess stress hormones. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in nine American adults over 65 reports cognitive decline.
“The parts of our brain that help with learning information and remembering can become smaller, and the brain can weigh less as we age,” said Colleen Marshall, chief clinical officer for Two Chairs.
While we will all experience health changes as we age, cognitive decline doesn’t happen at the same rate for everyone. By prioritizing brain fitness now, you can help slow the change and keep your mind sharp as you age.
Start doing these 6 things to nourish your brain for healthy aging
Solve puzzles
We’ll start with the easiest strategy to integrate into your daily life: puzzles. Solving puzzles can benefit the brain in several ways, from improving memory to boosting problem-solving skills.
“They may slow the rate of cognitive decline and how quickly the brain decreases in size as we age,” Marshall said.
A study published in the journal Neurology reported that playing games like checkers or completing jigsaw puzzles can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s by about five years. Different research supports the idea that solving crossword puzzles or journaling can lower the risk of dementia.
Experts suggest that puzzles help curb cognitive decline because they expand the brain’s cognitive reserve, or the ability to solve and cope with problems. Activities to try include putting together jigsaw puzzles or solving other types of puzzles, such as Sudoku, crosswords, memory games and math problems.
Learn a new skill
Like stimulating the brain by playing games or solving puzzles, learning a new skill has short-term and long-term advantages. By learning a new skill, you’re strategically activating several parts of your brain simultaneously. You’re also promoting neuroplasticity by creating new pathways and strengthening those connections as you continue honing the skill.
It could be learning a new language, painting or trying out a new sport. Just make sure it’s challenging or complex, and continue to practice for the best brain results.