Keeping Seniors’ Minds Sharp as They Age

Dementia is a physiological issue with no known cure. Research, however, suggests that keeping the mind sharp may slow the progression of mental decline. In simple terms, exercise—mental movement—helps. Read further for a few tips to keep adults’ minds sharp as they age.
Going Digital
If the senior in your family isn’t computer savvy like the other residents of an assisted living facility, now is a good time to get started. Reassure them that they’re not going to break anything if they make a mistake and give them a computer or tablet. The tinkering they’ll do as they surf the internet is a great mental exercise.
Taking it Further
Once the older adult in your life has mastered the basics, encourage them to broaden their horizons. Ask them if they’d like to take an online photo or video editing class. With these high-tech educational tools, seniors will learn while revisiting and preserving old memories.
Playing Solo
The Internet is a senior’s game-player’s dream, whether they’re into brainteasers, cards, or quizzes that test their knowledge. Even if they’re playing alone, virtual games keep seniors’ minds sharp.
Playing Along
Social interaction is a proven way to keep the brain agile. Multiplayer games are great for connecting people and challenging minds. Better yet, these games can all be played on a laptop or a mobile device so seniors can stay sharp while maintaining social distance.
Going Back to the Old Ways
There’s no guideline stating that brain games must be played online. Dig out the Scrabble set, set up a checkerboard, or deal the cards for a friendly poker game. Game time is family time, even if members are in different households.
Learning a New Language
Some people think that learning a second language is hard work—and it is—but it can be fun, too. Language learning is proven to form new neural connections and increase brain power. Duolingo, for instance, is a free app that offers 31 options, can be played on various devices, and allows seniors to learn at their own pace. It’s a fun way to learn!
Puzzling it Out
There’s a good reason why puzzles are sometimes called brainteasers. Jigsaw, sudoku, and crossword puzzles all require deductive reasoning, which keeps aging brains sharp.
Learning New Skills
Photography, crochet, baking, and sewing are just a few skills that require thought, focus, and attention to detail. Plus, the results are tangible! Ask the seniors in your life if they’d like to take a few classes to learn new skills.

Getting Moving
Physical exercise isn’t just good for the body; it’s great for the mind. A simple one-mile walk may build brain matter, and more vigorous movement will lower blood pressure and ease cognitive decline.
Aging Smartly and Gracefully
Lastly, families should keep in mind that cognitive changes are a natural part of aging. By engaging older family members in brain games, language learning, skill acquisition efforts, and physical exercise, everyone in the household can keep their minds sharp.