Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. It is the most common form of dementia, affecting an estimated 6.2 million Americans.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease. One way to do this is to exercise your brain regularly. But what are the exercises to help support you or a loved one after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and fight neurodegeneration?
Brain exercises help to keep your mind sharp and improve your cognitive function. They can also help to create new neural pathways in the brain, which can help to protect against Alzheimer’s. Read on to learn 12 easy and simple brain exercises for Alzheimer’s.
1. Hands and Finger Exercise
Multitasking can become a challenge as we age, but these exercises can make it easier. Try cycling through rock, paper, and scissor sign sequences with both hands until you can perform them effortlessly.
You can also challenge yourself by making both hands exchange different gestures simultaneously. These helpful exercises improve your focus, concentration, memory, and motor skills.
2. Gardening
Experience the benefits of gardening for your brain health instead of just working out. Engaging in the details of gardening can improve your mood, reduce negative thoughts, and enhance your overall mental well-being.
Discover a sense of relaxation and contentment as you cultivate your mind while tending to your garden. Boost your focus and concentration while nourishing your soul through the power of gardening.
3. Tai chi
Experience the power of tai chi, a unique blend of graceful movements and mindful breathing. Known as “meditation in motion,” this workout boosts coordination and promotes physical and mental well-being. Discover how tai chi can reduce stress and potentially lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Flower Arrangement
Whether you’re sitting, standing, or even in a wheelchair, this simple activity offers cognitive and sensory stimulation while also preserving motor skills. Plus, the art of flower arranging enhances your surroundings.
5. Play Music or Sing
Ignite your memories through the power of music. Whether you sing or play an instrument, the lyrics and melodies profoundly impact your brain’s ability to recall the past. Rediscover the magic of cherished moments with the simple act of making music.
6. Solve Puzzles
Puzzles challenge you to think critically and creatively, to solve problems, and to visualize spatial relationships. When you work on a puzzle, you must constantly analyze the pieces and figure out how they fit together. This requires you to use various cognitive skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial reasoning.
7. Scrapbooking
Yes, scrapbooking is a complex activity that can engage multiple brain parts. It is a creative project, a sorting/organizational project, and a memory-stimulating activity all in one.
Scrapbooking can stimulate memory by reminding people of past events and experiences. Looking at photos and other memorabilia can help to trigger memories and evoke emotions.
8. Play Matching Games
Matching games are a great way to promote brain health and avoid Alzheimer’s. They challenge your memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. They also help to improve your visual processing speed and spatial reasoning skills.
People of all ages and skill levels can play matching games. Many types of matching games are available, so you can find one you enjoy. You can find matching games online, in books, and stores. You can also play matching games with friends and family members.
9. Journaling
Keeping a journal can be a stimulating and beneficial activity for seniors with Alzheimer’s. It can help to keep the mind active and creative while also serving as a stress-releasing outlet. Journaling can be done in a variety of ways.
Seniors with Alzheimer’s may want to write about their thoughts, feelings, memories, or daily activities. They may also want to use their journal to write letters to loved ones or to create short stories or poems.
10. Walking
Walking is a great way to improve both your physical and mental health. It is a low-impact activity that is easy on your joints and can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels.
Walking can help to improve your memory, attention, and processing speed. It can also help to reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It also can help to improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression. It can also help to increase your sense of well-being.
11. Do Household Chores
It can make a big difference even if someone can only help with a few small chores. Helping out around the house can give a person a sense of accomplishment and responsibility. It can also help to build confidence and self-esteem.
Ask your family members for suggestions if you need help with how to help around the house. They can think of some chores you can do that are appropriate for your strengths and abilities. It is also essential to be patient and understanding.
Some people may learn new skills more slowly than others. If you are helping someone with a chore, be patient and offer guidance if needed.
12. Read the Newspaper
Yes, reading is a great way to stimulate memories and emotions. It is also a good form of mental exercise. When you read, you use your brain to process information, imagine new things, and connect ideas.
Reading about current events can be an excellent way to stay informed about what is happening in the world. It can also be a perfect way to learn about different cultures and perspectives. Additionally, reading about current events can help you to understand your thoughts and feelings about the world around you.
Let's Fight Neurodegeneration Together!
Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease, including exercising your brain regularly.
Brain exercises help to keep your mind sharp and improve your cognitive function. They can also help to create new neural pathways in the brain, which can help to protect against Alzheimer's.
These exercises are easy and can be incorporated into your daily routine. They are also a great way to improve your overall health and well-being. If you are concerned about your risk of Alzheimer's, talk to your doctor. They can help you develop a plan to reduce risk and protect your brain health!
