Human beings experience many mental problems as they reach their older years. Elderlies are susceptible to mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are many proactive ways to prevent this from happening.
The elderly can still function relatively well even in the later stages in their life. To keep them active, we must foster their brain’s plasticity through various mental and physical activities. This can keep them sharp and alert as they grow older and ease their thoughts during moments of distress. Here are some ways you can help promote brain functions among the elderly.
Stretching
Stretching is a vital activity that many people tend to overlook, especially when they get older. It becomes even more vital for elderlies who stay in a hospice. Adding a stretching routine can make a difference in how they function throughout the day as it releases hormones such as endorphins, which are essential in everyday functions. Additionally, these hormones can help with keeping their minds sharp and alert even during the later years of their life.
Moreover, motor practice, such as stretching, can help stimulate the brain’s plasticity, especially among older adults. This can help the elderly adapt better to their environment and keep them active throughout the years of their life. It can also help bring back long lost skills due to mental illnesses that they might have during the earlier years of their life.
Social Engagement
Human beings are social creatures. We’re not meant to stay alone for long periods. A study has found that the social engagement pattern of the elderly affects almost every part of their daily lives. It explains that elderlies with a low social engagement pattern are more inactive, less motivated, and have a hard time sleeping. This makes social engagement crucial during the later stages of development.
There are some situations where the elderly might have lost many friends and loved ones along the way. They must find new relationships by participating in various events in your neighborhood. You could also help them sign up to be volunteers in a non-profit organization nearby or even let them join a club. Additionally, it’s important to keep their families close as they are the main people they enjoy spending time with. All of these can help keep their brains working and help them feel that they still belong.
Proper Diet
Eating habits should be one thing that is monitored among the elderly. Unhealthy eating habits can lead to an unhealthy body and mind.
Having the proper diet, especially among the elderly, is essential in promoting brain function. Seniors who enjoy consuming junk food, fast food, and soft drinks are less active than those who eat a well-balanced meal. They also tend to be slower when it comes to cognitive activities. Additionally, having an unhealthy diet can also lead to mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease. So keep an eye out for what your elders eat as it can make a difference as they live through the years.
Mental Stimulation
Activities that promote mental stimulation is a proactive way to help increase brain functions among older adults. Many of the elderly start to be more inactive in the later stages of their life. This could be due to a disease they might have acquired as they grew older, or it could just be that they are no longer motivated to stay active. However, being active and encouraging exercises that promote mental stimulation are essential in improving brain functions among the elderly.
Activities such as reading, painting, writing, or even something as simple as crossword puzzles can make a difference in keeping an elder’s brain active and alert. An active brain is less likely to be affected by mental illnesses. It also helps fortify the mind against mood swings and improve overall cognitive functions.
The elderly are an essential part of our society. They were the ones that came before us. They helped shaped the world and tailored it to our needs. It is time we give back and take care of them as they pass through the later stages of life. We can do this by simply being there for them and helping them engage with their world, as they did with us many years ago.
