As we’re getting older, our mental capacity and functionality wane. Although these processes don’t affect everybody the same way, our cognitive functions change over the course of years.

The good news is that we can play an active role in keeping our brain fit.

In the next six paragraphs, you’ll read more about different techniques and routines that will help you stay in food cognitive shape.

 

 

1)      Get engaged in social activities

 

You might have already noticed that socially active older people seem to stay mentally sharp well into their old age.

According to psychologist Oscar Ybarra of the University of Michigan, spending time talking to people slows down mental decline for people aged 65+.

When you’re exposed to a variety of verbal stimuli, your brain is forced to take an active role in discussions.

On the one hand, the grey matter has to process the information received from the surroundings.

On the other, the brain has to perform certain operations to prepare and emit a response to each of these stimuli.

Older people who have that sort of experience on a daily basis don’t allow their brain to lose the sharpness.

Therefore, every retiree should go for a coffee with their friends a few times a week. Also, there are different clubs for retirees, where they can take part in various social activities.

In case you aren’t allowed to drink coffee anymore, a cup of tea will do.

 

2)      Eat brain-preserving food

 

The Mediterranean diet is generally accepted as one of the most beneficial diets for the overall wellbeing.

Based on fish, olive oil, fruit, vegetables, and nuts it ensures enough Omega 3 fatty acids, as well as the proper level of good cholesterol. Also,

What’s more, since these ingredients are usually boiled or stewed, there’s little or no frying in food preparation. Since fried oils and fats add to the cognitive decline, it’s recommended to avoid them as you’re getting older.

However, bear in mind that having pizza and pasta every day doesn’t mean that you’re eating Mediterranean food. While you can have a slice of pizza from time to time, focus on boiled and raw vegetables, as well as different sorts of fish.

 

3)      Feel the joy of playfulness

 

Many times, we can hear adult people refer to their parents as if they’re kids. Well, if your own descendants perceive you like a child, the only thing you can do is play as much as possible.

No matter if you prefer board games, word games, crosswords, or video games, they all have a beneficial effect on your brain.

Since our mind tends to close more and more as it’s growing older, it’s important to keep it engaged and busy as much as possible.

If you manage to play different games several times a week, your cognitive functions will stay on a pretty high level.

Also, over the last few years, the pub quiz craze has spread around the world. Since knowing trivial facts is good for our brain, older people should also participate in such events. For instance, you can organize a pub quiz at your local senior club. Not only that it will add to your social life but you’ll also get a chance to display your knowledge in a competitive way.

What’s more, you’ll feel satisfied that you keep doing different things, in spite of your age. As a result, your self-esteem and self-confidence will remain intact. This is extremely important for your everyday social and emotional functionality.

 

4)      Hang out with your family

 

This fast and profit-driven age often leads to alienation between family members. That way, some seniors live on their own and their children live far away from them.

If you’re in such a situation, try to organize as many occasions as possible for family celebrations and gatherings. For instance, in the US, most families gather only for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.

While most of us are part of the crazy rat race these days, we can try a bit more to see our beloved ones while we still can.

What’s more, families can organize trips in that will include both grandchildren and grandparents.

Although some folks might express a certain concern regarding potential health problems during such travels. As advised by a London-based care agency, you can ensure potential medical assistance in advance. In addition to that, make sure to pay travel insurance for older people on the go.

Spending some time together with their family in another town or countrycan help older people feel loved and looked after. This is something that will mean a lot to them.

 

5)      Beat all addictions

 

Alcohol, nicotine, and sugar are the three major enemies of every person aged 65 and more. Also, if you suffer from hypertension, nicotine is something you should avoid, as well.

While alcohol increases the risk of dementia, it’s also a highly addictive substance.

Nicotine and sugar have a similar effect on our brain. They present a considerable threat to the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.

So, if you want to keep your brain fit, you need to beat all these addictions.

As a matter of fact, you shouldn’t wait for the retirement age to cope with these issues. The sooner you eliminate these substances from your life, the better life you’re going to lead.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of sugar addiction. It doesn’t only lead to obesity and different illnesses caused by this condition but it may also cause diabetes.

 

Conclusion

 

Staying physically alive for as many years as possible is a great goal. But it gets even better if you manage to keep your mind fresh, as well.

In order to stay mentally sharp, it’s important to eat boiled and stewed meals, rather than fried and fast food. Also, you should take part in different social activities, from daily chitchats with friends to various games.

Finally, it’s beneficial to spend some time with your beloved ones, both at home and on the go.

And if you eliminate alcohol, cigarettes, and sugars from your life, you’ll keep your mind as bright as possible for many years.