Daily activities, which involve playing certain memory games and learning new skills boost cognitive reserve
Brain health is a vital part of overall well-being as we age. Studies say the best way to boost memory and reduce dementia risk as you age is through engaging in a variety of activities that help nourish and challenge the brain.
According to experts, various daily activities, which involve playing certain memory games, learning new skills, and many other brain-related activities, can stimulate neural connections and boost cognitive reserve. Here are a few activities—games and exercises that may help to improve and maintain your brain health and memory even after 40.
Playing chess
Chess is among the best ways to not just keep yourself occupied but also make your brain active - because the game is complex and challenging. Whether you play chess on an app or computer, it is always a bonus for your brain. Studies say those who engage in games like chess are less likely to develop dementia compared to people who don’t play those kinds of games.
Discover a new hobby
It is best to try out a new activity in your leisure time not just for fun but also to strengthen and boost your brain health. Apart from reducing your risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, it also keeps you active.
According to experts, taking up a hobby in mid-life and late-life also keeps you mentally strong as the benefits come from a higher engagement in life or life purpose.
Try using a non-dominant hand for daily chores
Using your non-dominant hand can be among the best exercises for your mind. Studies suggest that it might help "keep your brain alive" because using your opposite hand can be so challenging—and keeps you active.
Try switching hands while you are eating dinner or when you are trying to write something down. It will be difficult, but that is exactly the point.
Socialise
Various studies say those who socialise, especially in their 40s, are at a lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Socialising engages multiple areas of your brain, and many social activities also include physical elements, such as playing a sport, that are also beneficial to your mind.
A few ways you can be socially active include:
- Signing up for volunteer opportunities in your community
- Joining a club
- Signing up for a local walking group
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Staying in close touch with your friends and family
Draw a map of your city from memory
Even though you may be able to navigate through your neighbourhood with your eyes closed, try challenging your brain by drawing a map of your town or neighbourhood from memory. Include all the major streets, side streets, and local landmarks to get a hand on how strong your memory is.
Once you are done, compare your memory map to a real map of the area. Experts say forcing yourself to remember the layout of your neighborhood as well as draw and label it helps activate a variety of areas of your brain.
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