(Aging Untold) — The brain needs regular stimulation to function well, whether through physical exercise, meditation or learning new skills like painting or doing puzzles.
Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, said the brain thrives on neuronal connections and movement. Different activities target different regions and lobes of the brain, each controlling different functions.
“You want mental stimulation if it’s a crossword puzzle, reading,” Rogers said. “But anytime you learn new information, you’re strengthening those neuronal connections, and you want to build a reserve.”
Rogers said other areas of the brain handle sensory input and creativity, while movement promotes blood flow, circulation and oxygen. Social engagement also activates different brain regions.
Movement requires brain planning
Movement is critical because the brain must plan each action, Sam Cradduck, a gerontologist, said. The brain has to anticipate the next step, maintain balance and foresee obstacles like a cat crossing a path or a throw rug.
“As you’re moving along, you’re actually exercising your brain more than you know,” Cradduck said.
For people who cannot move easily, Cradduck suggested organizing family photo albums. The task requires memory, planning and executive function, which can help prevent dementia.
“Memory and mood and all that, that actually is the best resilience against neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and things like that,” Rogers said.
Find activities you enjoy
Amy O’Rourke, an aging expert, said people should not overthink brain health activities. She compared forcing puzzles or word games on someone to telling people to exercise when they dislike it.
“What do you like to do and build on that?” O’Rourke said. “If you like to walk, go with a friend and walk and talk, like then you get that back-and-forth stimulation with the brain. If you like to cook, then try a new recipe.”
Katherine Ambrose, an aging-well coach, mentioned lifelong learning opportunities and dance lessons as options.
She said her mother loves to dance and has read studies suggesting it could be the best exercise for the brain.
Ambrose also mentioned swimming as another option.
“Just find what really works for you and gets you excited about life,” Ambrose said. “It’s just important to stay engaged with living.”
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