Keeping the Brain Active

Mental activity is just as important as physical activity and should not be neglected.  As we get older, we are at a higher risk for cognitive impairments such as memory loss, neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and more. Keeping the brain fit impacts overall health and helps increase longevity while warding off cognitive decline. Here are a few things you can do to boost brainpower.

Physical exercise – Staying physically active in any capacity is beneficial. Taking a walk, jog, or hopping on the treadmill, doing yoga or tai-chi, can boost your energy level, improve your mood and memory and reverse the effects of stress. Exercise increases the levels of oxygen in the brain and throughout the body, which promotes healthy brain functioning.

Diet and nutrition – Stock up on healthy foods. Eating a well-balanced diet filled with fresh fruits, vegetables and tons of antioxidants and omega-3’s will help improve mood, calm inflammations, and promote brain health while providing our bodies with essential nutrients for overall well-being.

Mental stimulation – Challenge your mind with brain-building activities that promote quick thinking and problem-solving skills and encourage creativity. Reading the new bestseller, joining a cooking class, learning a new language, playing cards, painting, drawing, doing word puzzles, solving math problems, or going to a museum or concert, all support brain fitness.

Socialization – Get out there! Join a community center, book club, knitting club, or sign up to volunteer in local neighborhood events or charities. Meet up and chat with friends. Being around people and socializing combats loneliness, increases self-confidence and improves physical and mental health. For those who are homebound, call or skype family or friends or join virtual programs.

AgeWell New York, a managed care plan, offers health care coverage to support your health care needs and gives you resources to help you stay healthy.

Click here to explore Medicare Advantage and Medicaid Managed Long Term Care Plans or call 1-866-237-3210.