Cognition is our ability to learn, understand, and remember through thinking and the senses. Maintaining proper brain health is a vital part of the aging process that helps keep individuals independent, functional, and comfortable. Maintaining good brain health and cognitive function does not happen exclusively through luck; it is partially a result of a mix of genetics and environmental conditions. There are several things we can actively do to help keep our minds in good shape throughout our lives.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s are an increasing problem with the growing aging population in Canada. It is important to seek the advice of one’s primary Physician and consult home care services for elders about ways to keep the brain active and which steps to take to maintain and improve cognitive function as we age. A private Registered Nurse or Caregiver who knows their clients well can integrate proper mental and physical activities as well as diet planning to suit each individual.
Keeping an active mind involves performing variety of activities and using different types of intelligence – like logical, musical, interpersonal, or linguistical. Volunteering, hobbies, classes, social groups, and attending events and other outings engage the mind. Learning or practicing a new skill promotes adaptive mental reserves. Some ideas for hobbies or classes include photography, cooking, reading groups, musical instruments, writing or journaling. Watching documentaries, reading books and newspapers, and playing games are easy activities to do in the home. There is some evidence that apps and games that test cognitive training in reasoning, memory, math, and reading, can be helpful as well. York and Ryerson in the Toronto area also offer free tuition for seniors!
Staying physically active is another essential component of good cognition. Regular exercise helps fight anxiety and depression, reduces heart disease, and increases strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. Exercise also stimulates the brain and increases blood circulation. The brain and body are inextricably linked; illness and disease often have stress as part of the cause, and exercise helps with sleep, relaxation, and enhances coping ability. Joining a walking group, taking a class like yoga, tai chi, or aqua fit, or using light resistance bands and weights at home are all activities that can be catered to suit most fitness levels and abilities.
A proper diet helps reduce risk of and care for heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and other diseases, but it is also important for brain function. The healthiest diet is one that is mostly plant-based, high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, has lots of good fats, and is low in saturated fats, trans fats, and sugar. Everyone can benefit from plenty of water.Processed and refined foods – like fast food and pre-prepared dishes – increase sluggishness, fatigue, and are bad for the heart. There is also evidence that a poor diet can contribute to depression and anxiety. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Often overlooked in discussions about brain health is the social component. Many seniors experience loneliness as they age, and attending classes, groups, outings, or gatherings in the home are important for emotional and mental health. Social activity is a great benefit of a social bond and connection that comes with having a quality, compassionate, private Nurse or Caregiver visit or live in the home.
Healthy cognition and good mental health involves a lifestyle filled with good food, good activities, and good friends!