Staying Mentally Active is as Important as Keeping Physically Active
More and more research suggests it is just as important for seniors to stay mentally fit as it is to stay physically fit, and may actually help to keep older adults’ brains healthier. Seniors who engage in meaningful activities also report they feel healthier and happier.
The National Institute on Aging says these types of activities may protect the brain by establishing a cognitive reserve. They explain “they may help the brain become more adaptable in some mental functions, so it can compensate for age–related brain changes and health conditions that affect the brain.”
One study called the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) Trial, had good results in improving seniors’ mental skills in the areas they were trained in. The study involved healthy adults age 65 years or older who participated in 10 sessions of memory training, reasoning training, or processing–speed training. The most surprising result of the study is that ten years later most of the participants’ improvements were still noticeable.
Brain activities can include reading a book, making a puzzle, doing crosswords or playing trivia and other types of challenging games. Research also suggests that memory improvement is not only accomplished by targeted brain games or memory drills, but can come from undertaking a new skill or hobby. Learning to play an instrument or a foreign language are also great, brain healthy activities.
MorningStar of Happy Valley has been designed from the ground up to be a true home for area seniors, and when we open late this year, we will provide an array of resort-style amenities and care services. In addition we will offer meaningful enrichment programs and activities designed to engage residents’ intellectual, physical, spiritual, emotional and social connections. Each day, MorningStar’s Life Enrichment team will present creative ways to stay active and productive for man’s good and God’s glory.
In addition to our 61 beautiful, private assisted living suites, we will offer 27 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. We are located on the south side of SE Sunnyside Rd., between SE 142nd Ave. and SE 145th Ave, and have an onsite Information Center where we look forward to meeting interested seniors and their families.
MorningStar of Happy Valley represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement: “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we are honored to create a true “home” for residents. As what promises to be one of the best senior living communities in the area, we invite you to visit our website to learn more.
Source: nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults