Memory loss is one of the most common mental health issues affecting older adults and their independence. Lack of independence can consequently result in depression, stress, and social isolation. Maintaining the mind and its health is an extremely important aspect of senior care, particularly when it comes to memory. Here are a few ways aging Americans can fight against memory loss.
Puzzles and Word Games
Puzzles and games are a great way to keep the brain active. Consistently challenging the mind is a key component in mental health, especially when it comes to aging. Crossword puzzles and Sudoku are the most recommended options for memory stimulation, though countless brain games are available with a quick internet search.
Learning a New Skill
Studies are now showing that learning new skills such as picking up a new hobby greatly improve memory in older adults. Of course, one can’t learn a new skill every day, so supplementing crocheting lessons with daily crosswords can make a great recipe for memory retention.
A Healthy and Balanced Diet
The food you eat also impacts your mental wellbeing. A good diet is necessary for the mind to stay sharp and for memory to improve. Of course, along with consuming a healthy, nutritious diet, aging Americans should exercise to keep the blood flowing to the brain. Staying fit and eating well are the best ways to combat nearly any mental health problem that occurs as a result of age.
Organizing Your Life
A scattered, disorganized life sets anyone up for forgetfulness. Clear out unneeded items and store possessions with the intention of making an older adult’s life easier. Let their home be a place where it is difficult to forget where they keep a specific item. You may also want to suggest a day planner of appointments and events to keep track of daily life.
Part-Time Jobs
Working during retirement is rising in popularity for its numerous positive benefits. Older adults who work are happier and healthier as a result of social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. All these aspects of employment work toward memory retention as our aging loved ones learn the new skills of their job and talk to new people. An extra bit of income also never hurts.
Quality Sleep
The average adult needs seven to eight hours of sleep. Anyone who has gotten less than that on a regular basis can testify that it causes memory loss. Keeping daily life on schedule when you are tired is difficult for people of all ages and therefore can impact people who are aging as well. When older Americans do not get enough quality sleep, their mental well-being, memory included, is sure to suffer. If they are experiencing insomnia, it is important that you find the cause and eliminate it whether it means buying a new mattress or speaking to a doctor about sleep medication.
Memory loss is often accepted as a normal part of aging. However living with memory loss is preventable with the right activities and alterations. Diet and sleep can be tricky to tackle but buying a crossword puzzle book is not. Get the older adult in your life mentally active whether it is through trivia games, Sudoku, or even finding a part time job. Don’t accept life with memory loss, find a way to fight it.
This guest post was written by Jim Vogel. Jim Vogel and his wife, Caroline, created ElderAction.org after they began caring for their ailing parents. Through that rewarding and sometimes difficult process they’ve learned a lot about senior care and specifically the need for more effective senior mental health and support. Their site offers elder-positive resources and other helpful information on aging. In his spare time, Jim loves fishing, reading, and spending time with his kids.
Image via Pixabay by stevepb
