Spending hours playing Sudoku or online brain games isn’t the only way to tinker with your thinker. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a good time to make easy lifestyle shifts that can boost brain health.
Get your Zzzs. An ongoing lack of sleep or poor sleep quality increases your risk of memory problems, forgetfulness, or more falls or accidents. If you struggle to get a good night’s sleep, you’re not alone. Roughly one in three American adults report not getting enough rest or sleep every day. Keep a steady sleep schedule, make sure you have the right mattress for your needs, avoid heavy meals and caffeine before bed, nap less during the day, turn off your screens, and create a calming bedroom environment.
Hear ye, hear ye. Untreated hearing loss makes your brain work harder to understand what you are hearing, which can put you at risk for memory loss and confusion. Talk to your doctor annually about your hearing. Avoid loud environments when possible. Lower the volume when wearing ear buds or headphones. Hearing aids may be helpful and can lead to improved relationships with others.
Watch your blood, sugar. Having diabetes can put your brain health at risk. That’s because diabetes can damage blood vessels, which results in reduced or blocked blood flow to the brain. Keep your blood sugar levels under control to stay healthy.
Move and groove. Exercising increases blood flow to the brain. It doesn’t have to be boring or hard. Play hide and seek with your grandkids. Walk with a neighbor. Show off your disco dancing moves. Try some light yoga at Maury River Senior Services. Aim to reach 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity per week.
Savor the season. Some of the most delicious summer foods are good for your brain. Blueberries and strawberries improve blood flow to the brain and protect cells from damage. Fatty fish like salmon provide omega-3 fatty acids which lower damaging proteins in the brain. So, visit a pick-your-own berry farm and throw some seafood on the grill.
Giggle with the girls and guys. Spending time with friends and family can help stimulate attention and memory while strengthening the brain’s neural connections. In fact, people with strong social relationships are less likely to experience cognitive decline than those who spend much of their time isolated or alone. You can meet new friends at VPAS Cafes.
To learn more about yoga, VPAS Cafes, and other ways to boost your brain, call Valley Program for Aging Services at (540) 261-7474.
