There is no one way to keep your brain active and build brain reserves. Some of us will prefer solving crosswords, playing chess, bridge, Sudoku or other mind-games. Crafts, reading, learning new languages or skills can all be stimulating activities.
Options for optimizing brain function as we age:
- Increase physical activity
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- Try a cardio class at your local gym
- Have a session with a personal trainer or exercise physiologist
- Walk to the shops or to work instead of driving
- Go for a weekend bike ride with your family
- Throw a Frisbee in your local park
- Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids – a high intake of trans-fats and saturated fats is associated with increased rates of cognitive decline, so increase your intake of fish, fish oils, nuts and omega-3 supplements
- Eat a ‘rainbow’ of fresh fruits and vegetables daily to ensure your brain gets access to valuable antioxidants
- Try a new recreational pursuit – go camping if you are typically city-bound
- Keep challenging your brain – do the crossword, a puzzle, start a Bridge course, read regularly, play word association games – whatever mental activities you choose, keep your brain working on a daily basis
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- Keep engaging in new activities
- Learn a new language
- Read up on a novel subject
- Enrol in a TAFE or university course
- Do crosswords, Sudoku or brain puzzles
- Manage stress – find time to relax and make constructive lifestyle changes that help prevent stress
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- Try a yoga class
- Start meditation – 5 minutes morning and evening is a positive beginning
- See a counselor or psychologist to debrief
- Get a massage or facial on a weekly or fortnightly basis
- Try rhythmic breathing such as Buteko Breathing
- Get quality sleep – if your sleep habits are poor make changes to improve them
- Take up gardening – even if you live in an apartment you can do gardening in a pot
- Book in for a series of neurofeedback sessions to enhance feelings of wellbeing
- Buy an AVE system and give your brain a boost: go to www.mindalive.com for a reputable brand
Last Reviewed 02/Mar/2014
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Dr Merlin Thomas
Professor Merlin Thomas is Professor of Medicine at Melbourne’s Monash University, based in the Department of Diabetes. He is both a physician and a scientist. Merlin has a broader interest in all aspects of preventive medicine and ageing. He has published over 270 articles in many of the worlds’ leading medical journals
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