Great Brain Games Can Keep Senior Minds Sharp!
Memory loss, whether it’s simple forgetfulness or a serious health condition like dementia or Alzheimer’s, is a common challenge for the majority of seniors. A lot of research is going into how we can prevent or slow this type of memory loss, and researchers are increasingly promoting brain games to achieve this. Here’s some insight from the team at our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey.
What Are Brain Games?Â
Just like physical games and activities strengthen our muscles, so brain games challenge our mental abilities. They’re important to every stage of development, from babies all the way up to seniors, helping to keep neurons in the brain active and stimulated.
The good news is that there are a lot of different types of brain games. So, it’s more about finding ones you or your senior loved one enjoys rather than making it a boring exercise. It also means that they’re great for socializing and spending time with family and friends, so start planning your next intergenerational games night!
4 Good Examples of Brain GamesÂ
Crafting – Arts and crafts are a huge industry, which means that there is so much out there accessible to seniors. This includes everything from flower arranging and scrapbooking to knitting, crocheting, and painting. These creative exercises are plenty of fun for everyone, and they’re great for your brain, especially if it means you’re learning a new skill. There are also charity craft events with opportunities to join in on a great cause and help others.
Online Gaming – Online gaming isn’t just for teens! There’s something for every age group and interest, even if you’re not particularly comfortable with technology. From puzzle games and word games to adventure challenges and more, these games are absorbing, social, and stimulating – and your mom or dad can always call your kids for a little help to get recommendations or setting them up.
Audio Books – Reading can become a challenge when we get older, whether it’s our eyesight or just having to focus for long periods of time. These days, almost every book released also comes with an audio edition that can be downloaded onto a smartphone, tablet, or computer. These systems are not only incredibly easy to use, but also rewarding as talented actors read aloud and bring the stories to life!
Chess and Strategy Games – Strategy games force us to use our reasoning, logic, and cognitive skills in a competitive environment which can be as challenging as it is fun. Classics like Chess, Mahjong, Bridge, and Scrabble are classics that are incredibly popular all around the world. So, it’s not only easy to learn and progress, but it’s also easy to find plenty of fellow enthusiasts locally and online.
It’s All About Independent Living at Our CCRC in Sussex County, New JerseyÂ
Bristol Glen is a CCRC and assisted living community, which is based in Sussex County, and aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living options that free up your time to enjoy life. Founded on a philosophy of ‘aging in place’, our continuing care retirement community residents enjoy a less restrictive care model where they do not have to move from their residential apartment to access additional services as their needs change.
Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/ and book your visit today.
