8 Tips for Taking Care of Your Brain

You’ve heard the common phrase ‘use it or lose it’? This holds true for brain function! Your brain changes as you age.  This fact shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone.  Not only does cognitive activity slow down but your brain actually starts to shrink in size when you enter your sixties.  You may know that as you age, you should make changes to your lifestyle to support your physical health, but did you know that there are things you can do to support your brain health too? 

Enhancing your brain health can really make a difference in the quality of life you have, so take a look at some tips we’ve compiled to help keep your brain in shape!

1. Be social. Social connections help preserve mental function and memory and can help ward off depression. If it is hard for you or your loved one to get out, elder home health care can be a great resource for providing regular mental and social stimulation.
2. Crossword puzzles, reading, Sudoku, card games, music – there are many types of activities that help keep the brain in shape. Pick your favorite or take up something new! If you or your loved one has senior home care, be sure to ask them to incorporate games and play into their visits.
3. Keep Moving. Physical activity can also help protect against the loss of mental Daily walks, taking the stairs or doing light yoga, swimming or Pilates are good options.
4. Watch Your Cholesterol. Poor cholesterol levels increase your risk of dementia.
5. Fuel Your Brain. Talk to your doctor about adding more B vitamins into your diet as they have been shown to decrease the risk of dementia. Eating less saturated fats and more whole foods will help keep your brain sharp too.
6. Get Your Rest. If you have trouble getting to or staying asleep, you will see reduced cognitive function. Make sure you get the rest you need by establishing positive sleep hygiene habits.
7. Manage Your Blood Pressure. High blood pressure in your 40s and 50s increases the risk of cognitive decline in old age.
8. Wear A Helmet. Even if you grew up never wearing one, get yourself a helmet for biking, skiing or other relevant activities. Head injuries increase the risk of cognitive impairment as you age.

No matter what your age, there are some simple things you can do to help remember things that are important.  Try to always place items you use frequently (keys, glasses, remotes) in the same spot and make daily to do lists to help you manage tasks and responsibilities.

iCare Home Health is a premier provider offering senior home care and elderly care in Burlington, Milton and all across the Greater Toronto Area. Our programs can support both physical and mental health and help seniors enjoy a great quality of life while still living at home.  You can learn more about our services by contacting us at (905) 491-6941 or send us an email at info@icarehomehealth.ca.