For many years, researchers have been studying the phenomenon of “use it or lose it.” The phrase refers to the aging process in that if you don’t use your mind, it will start to become more difficult to use it. Some studies have found that this may not be the case, and it’s more accurate to say that it just takes longer for older people to learn new information. It could also be that when you use your mind more, it’s easier to learn than if you did not. Whether “use it or lose it” is correct or not, no one can deny the benefits of exercising the mind – learning new information and improved mental health.
What You Can Do
With just a few minutes each day, you can slow down cognitive decline as you age. Consider adding these activities into your days.
Read
Reading the newspaper, online articles, or books are all good ways to keep your mind active. Be sure to use good reading glasses if you have trouble seeing, so you don’t experience headaches. If you’re unable to read for long, just do it for five minutes or so each time.
Volunteer
One reason older individuals suffer from cognitive decline is because they’ve retired, so their minds aren’t challenged as much. Volunteering can replace some of the cognitive benefits you received from your job. You don’t have to volunteer full-time, but there’s scientific evidence that 15 or more hours a week is most effective.
Brain Games
Puzzles and other brain games such as what Luminosity offers can help slow down cognitive decline. The reasoning is the same as when you were working full time – when you challenge your brain, it causes new neuron connections, which helps your mind stay just as sharp as it was when you were employed.
Exercise
Exercise isn’t only good for your body, but for your mind as well. Your brain helps you move your body because it tells your joints what to do to move. This is why exercising helps. It’s best to try new exercises each day, so it makes your mind work harder to learn the new maneuvers.
Visit the Doctor
Cognitive decline is a side effect of medical conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It’s important to be assessed for these conditions and get treated for them, so your mind doesn’t become affected by them.
It can be difficult to feel motivated to exercise your mind and body, but it’s vitally important as you age. If you need help, consider contacting Kendall Van Blarcom – personal consultant.
A personal consultant can help you slow down the cognitive effects of aging by finding out why you’re not motivated to incorporated some of these tips into your days. He can also coach you along to help you achieve your goals when it comes to keeping your mind active and healthy. Call Kendall today to learn more about personal consulting and how it can help you.