Understanding the importance of lifelong learning for seniors can lead to many tremendous benefits for the overall health of an older person in your life. When older adults retire, it can be challenging to maintain the same brain function. Older adults may not interact with others as much and may not partake in activities that stimulate the brain, and the lack of mental stimulation can lead to cognitive decline. Thankfully, people can always learn a new skill to help maintain a healthy brain.
Age should never be a factor in an older adult’s learning journey. The IBE – Science of Learning Portal reports that as long as we are open to learning, our brains will change, leading to better health overall. Older adults and seniors can take advantage of their free time to learn new skills, take on new hobbies and connect with others.
Brain Health for Seniors
Proper sleep, the right diet and exercise are key components to healthy aging and improving brain health. Foods such as leafy greens, fish, nuts, berries and eggs provide great nutrients for the brain. However, another component of brain health is consistent learning.
As you age, learning new things may be less common in your everyday life. Mental stimulation is a great addition to your routine to keep your brain healthy. UCLA Health suggests games like crossword puzzles or math games like Sudoku can help with cognitive function, attention and memory.
Activities to Do with Elderly Parents
When helping your loved one improve their brain health, there are many activities that you can try. Some options from Elder.org include:
- Trivia Quizzes: Doing a trivia quiz on topics like history or old TV shows is a great way to stimulate your older adult’s memory and build community.
- Arts & Crafts – Crafts like painting, drawing, knitting or scrapbooking are a great way to keep both sides of the brain active. It also keeps their mind busy without adding additional stress.
- Bingo: Bingo is a favorite among seniors as it encourages social interaction and helps to stimulate hearing, sight and touch.
- Jigsaw puzzles: Puzzles are a relaxing activity that stimulates the mind while easing anxiety and tension in the body.
While there are many amazing activities, the importance of lifelong learning for seniors is all about choosing activities best suited to their interests and needs.
Aging and Mental Health
Mental stimulation for seniors is not just about providing stimulating activities for brain health; it also includes emotional connections with others. Many seniors spend most of their time alone, with no one to talk to consistently. Mental illnesses like depression can increase in lonely elderly who are also facing a physical illness or disability.
According to the University of Utah, mental illness can lead to diminished functioning, which plays a part in brain health. Staying active in the community and having others around is another way to improve seniors’ brain health. Through conversation with others, seniors can learn and engage their memory and attention.
Choose the Right Resources for Improving Brain Health
Lifelong learning for seniors does not have to be dull or rigid. With the right resources it can be engaging, fun and create long-lasting memories for your family. Recognizing the importance of lifelong learning for seniors is the first step in helping them improve their brain health and overall well-being. FirstLight Home Care is ready to help provide your loved one with the care they need to keep their brains happy and healthy.
If you want more brain health tips for your loved one, contact a FirstLight Home Care near you. Our caregivers are committed to helping your loved one be their best in body, mind and soul.