Brain training for seniors
No-nonsense advice from the American Academy of Family Physicians
The oft-used epithet “use it or lose it” usually refers to the importance of exercising our bodies and staying fit, but exercising our brains is just as important. Our brain needs a regular workout, especially as we age. After the age of 65, our risk of developing dementia doubles approximately every five years.
Dementia is not a disease. It’s a symptom resulting from damaged brain cells that affect our memory, personality, and decision-making abilities. Brain damage can occur from a head injury, stroke, or disease, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Other diseases, such as uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, can cause another form of dementia known as vascular dementia, which is caused by poor blood supply to the brain.
While some forms of dementia cannot be cured and the brain damage cannot be reversed, research shows that keeping your brain active with activity, a healthy diet, and physical exercise can make a difference. Just like physical activity, the earlier you start brain-training activity, the better the benefits.
The Family Doctor website of AAFP provides a useful and intelligent checklist of ways we can keep our minds and intellects in the best possible shape.