Aug 15, 2023 | News
Mental decline occurs naturally with age, but it doesn’t have to become inevitable. By taking certain actions and incorporating them into your everyday routines, using home technology where needed, you can help keep your brain stimulated and functioning normally for longer.
1. Prioritise sleep
Get into the habit of prioritising sleep – it’s critical for maintaining normal brain function. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep a night. If you find it hard to fall asleep, look into home technology options to help you wind down and nod off, from light therapy gadgets to wearable devices.
2. Make time for movement
Exercise increases your heart rate, which stimulates blood flow around the body – including to the brain. Make time to move your body in some way every day, whether that’s taking a walk, doing light housework or enjoying an activity such as yoga, dancing or swimming.
3. Get social
Human interaction is thought to increase connections between brain cells, therefore contributing to brain health. Try to socialise in some form each day, whether it’s meeting a friend or relative for a walk or chatting to a loved one on the phone or over a video call.
4. Practise mindfulness
Techniques such as mindfulness and meditation can help calm your mind and reduce stress levels, which in turn helps maintain normal brain function. Try to set aside a few minutes every day to practise meditation or mindfulness exercises such as breathwork.
5. Exercise the mind
Brain games and puzzles are mentally stimulating and a lot of fun to do at home. Technology such as brain training apps makes it easier to access a range of options. Find something you enjoy that uses memory, attention and critical thinking skills, and dedicate some time each day to it.
6. Learn a new skill
Learning new things is another way to challenge and stimulate your mind, and it’s never too late to gain new skills. Whether it’s learning a language, playing a musical instrument, or improving your technology skills, by learning and practising something regularly you can help keep your brain healthy.
7. Make time to read
Reading engages several different brain functions and is hugely enjoyable too. In fact, research has found that reading regularly may reduce cognitive decline. So why not make picking up a book a fun, daily habit?
8. Drink plenty of water
Even slight dehydration can lead to a dip in cognitive function. Make hydration a priority by aiming to drink two litres of water every day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty – keep water handy in the home so you can keep your hydration levels topped up throughout the day.
9. Eat leafy green veg
Try to include a portion of leafy green vegetables in your daily diet. Research has shown a link between eating vegetables such as spinach and kale slow cognitive decline, this is thought to be due to the high levels of antioxidants found in these sorts of vegetables.
10. Listen to music
Music helps activate networks in the brain, stimulating our minds and boosting our mood. Technology like smart speakers make it easy to access any music you like at home. So, whether you like to listen while cooking, or you’re partial to an at-home dance session, make listening to music a daily habit.
If you think you or a loved one would benefit from professional live-in care, contact our team at OxleyCare today.