Time and time again, all you hear is how the older you get the more you lose your memories and your faculties. That’s far from the truth! As you grow older, there is so much you can do to keep your brain active. Poor memory and cognitive deterioration doesn’t have to be part of aging process. There’s everything from crafts, to simple hobbies, to writing that can assist in keeping the mind sharp. If you have a person in your life who is tech savvy, then of course there is Pinterest to help with some cool ideas! Even if poor physical health limits your options, there is still tons to enjoy and do. Some examples are given for each below:
Hobbies for those with health issues or limited mobility:
- Puzzles, Card Games, Memory Games -crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or jigsaws. Some things that require you to search and remember challenge the mind, keep your mind stimulated, and exercise your memory. Go online and challenge a friend or family member to a game of Scrabble or play a game of solitaire.
- Crafts – knitting, scrapbooking, even making a collage. All of these activities can help concentration, as well as remembering steps. What’s even better? Creating something beautiful for yourself or someone you love! Is there a grandchild on the way? Who wouldn’t love a handcrafted scarf or baby blanket?
- Writing -Recording your family history or genealogy. Writing can stimulate the brain when you bring into memory small facts or cherished memories that you may have forgotten later in life. Start a dream journal or make a list of things you must do or see, then make a plan to do it! Write a book, a collection of poems, or short stories. The possibilities are endless!
Hobbies for those who can get up and go:
- Travel – Make a list of places to go that you’ve always wanted to see or know more about. You can visit a local museum or a park you used to always go to, or travel around the world. It’s never too late to explore the places you’ve always wanted to see and do the things you’ve always wanted to do!
- Classes – Invest time in classes such as for cooking, photography, or water aerobics. Find something exciting that can get you up, moving, and bring out your passion for life!
- Build Something – Make simple things from classic bird feeders to a doll house. Keep it simple or go to extreme; it’s up to you!
There is so much more you can do to boost your brain and keep it young. Who says getting older has to be boring? By engaging in certain daily activities or exercises, you can keep busy and keep a spring in your step. For some of these, it may require more effort than others, depending on your health, but there’s something for everyone. If you’re truly wishing to get your brain invigorated, just try a few of these simple things just to get started. Your brain is one of your most cherished possessions as you get older. You know what they say, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”