Boosting Brain Health As You Age

How to Improve Brain Function As You Age

Many aspects of our lives, such as workout regimens and career pursuits, may slow down as we age. For retirees, many of these changes are welcomed. Without the significant responsibilities of career progression or raising a family, seniors have more time to pursue likes and interests previously pushed to the side.

While these “slowing down” aspects of aging are often embraced, others are less sought after. One of the most prominent issues with aging is the deterioration of mental sharpness. Fortunately, just as there are steps to enhance physical health, there are steps to boost brain health as you age.

Tips to Boost Your Brain Health

1. Healthy Diet

Even though the saying “you are what you eat” is overly simplistic, there is some truth to it. What you eat directly impacts all other facets of your life, especially your brain and heart health. Eating healthy, or adjusting your diet, doesn’t need to be an excruciating process. Making slight adjustments to your diet, such as consuming more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish, can make all the difference as you age.

2. Quality Sleep

Sleep plays a massive role in memory retention, alertness, and coping ability. When receiving new information, your brain needs time to process and move it from short-term to long-term storage. Your brain goes through this “filing process” while you sleep, so a lack of sleep can make it harder for your brain to process information efficiently. The brain also removes a toxic protein known as beta-amyloid while you sleep, which is often linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Many people experience trouble sleeping as they age, which can only accelerate and worsen their cognitive function. To improve your sleep hygiene, reduce TV time before bed and stick to a consistent bedtime. Reading can be a great way to wind down at the end of the day and calm the mind for a restful night’s sleep.

3. Learn a New Skill

Learning a new skill in retirement is a phenomenal way to keep your brain active while improving your mental health. Research has shown that learning new activities increases cognitive reserve in our brain, stimulating new connections between nerve cells while generating new ones. Try learning a new language or pick up a musical instrument. If one new skill isn’t working, move on to another—chances are high that at least one will stick.

Learn More: The Benefits of Learning a New Skill in Retirement

4. Stay Social

Regularly spending time with friends and family is proven to help keep our brains healthy. Strong social ties are associated with decreased depression, a lower risk of dementia, lower blood pressure, and a longer life expectancy. Keep in touch with your family, whether in person or digitally and take the time to join events and groups in your community.

At Seafields by Bishop Gadsden, we facilitate a thriving community where individuals can follow their passions by joining various clubs, organizations, and social events. Learn more about a day in the life of a Seafields resident here!

5. Reduce Stress & Anxiety

While our bodies are designed to handle normal amounts of stress, prolonged stress isn’t mentally or physically healthy. Too much stress can lead to cortisol buildup in the brain, interfering with brain functioning—causing what’s commonly referred to as brain fog.

Practicing mindfulness and meditation, along with a breathing-focused workout such as yoga, is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety.

Healthy Senior Living at Seafields by Bishop Gadsden

At Seafields by Bishop Gadsden, we recognize the impact healthy living has on our mental and physical health. Our residents thrive in our social, active, and welcoming environment. Tucked in between Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, our community is perfect for seniors looking to enjoy their golden years.

Are you interested in learning more about Seafields by Bishop Gadsden? Contact us below to explore our available residences.