We often hear the importance of keeping our bodies active and well-nourished, but would you believe that physical health is closely intertwined with cognitive health, too?
Regular physical activity, healthy eating and getting enough sleep are staples to overall health that become even more essential for our brain function as we age. They’re key to promoting healthy, independent living for adults 55 years or older, which is central to the mission of Care Resources. The community-based program serves residents of Kent County and portions of Allegan, Barry, Ionia and Ottawa counties.
In her role as a recreational therapist with the organization, Sabrina Cusenza organizes a variety of programs to help restore, maintain or enhance participants’ cognitive function, among other health goals.
“As a normal part of aging, older adults may find themselves turning down the wrong street, misplacing household items or struggling to find the right word mid-conversation,” Cusenza says. “While there is some cognitive decline that happens naturally as we get older, there are a lot of activities we can do to help keep our minds sharp.”
Beyond the basics of getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly, eating balanced meals and sleeping 7-8 hours each night, Cusenza recommends challenging your brain by learning a new skill.
“Think of a hobby you’ve always wanted to do,” Cusenza says. “Maybe it’s learning embroidery or quilting. Maybe you love to bake and there’s a recipe you’d like to try. Getting the materials or ingredients needed and setting aside time to do that new activity is very beneficial for cognitive health.”
When we learn new skills, the density of the brain’s white matter is increased and neural pathways are formed, which can help with memory recall, concentration and more.
Cusenza also says staying engaged in hobbies you already enjoy is great as well – everything from reading books, completing word searches, doing crossword puzzles, playing Sudoku or enjoying some creative writing.
Caregivers and loved ones of older adults can help promote brain health by joining in activities with the seniors in their lives or helping get the materials needed so seniors can try something new.
“Playing Scrabble, partnering on a word search or doing a matching memory card game can be fun ways to spend time together that has the added benefit of improving brain health,” Cusenza says. “Just being social and being present for meaningful activities goes a long way.
“At Care Resources, we also do a lot of reminiscing and listening to music, which caregivers can do with their loved one at home. Both are great for bringing back old memories to the surface and connecting with others about meaningful life moments.”
Cusenza also notes there are free apps and internet sites that can make memory-boosting activities more accessible if you don’t have certain activities already at home.
“You can find a lot of good apps for digital Scrabble, sudoku, word searches or memory games,” she says. “E-books are great as well.”
Finding opportunities for socialization is equally important. Connecting with other people can stimulate memory, and help strengthen neural networks.
Cusenza recommends seeking out group activities in your community – whether it’s a book club, prayer group, creative course or a day center like Care Resources. Even utilizing video chats can be helpful if you can’t meet up with friends or family in person.
“Eliminating social isolation and loneliness is especially important for older adults,” she says. “Take advantage of programs that help you stay social and push you to try new things to help you maintain good health well into the future.”
Last updated 10.4.24 | H5610_WEB
