Exercising the brain can be an important, enjoyable part of everyday life.
Numerous studies have suggested that engaging in mentally stimulating activities regularly can result in a reduced risk of cognitive decline and developing dementia.
Activities that involve exercise for the brain include:
- Reading
- Listening to podcasts
- Taking a short course
- Learning a new language
- Playing musical instruments
- Art and other creative pursuits
- Taking part in activities such as sports, dancing, or gardening
- Playing board games, crosswords, Sudoku and other puzzles
- Interacting with grandchildren
- Involvement in service clubs and volunteering.
Almost any type of mental activity may be beneficial, but the most important thing is to continue to involve new learning, keep it varied and interesting, engage regularly and where possible make it a social event – involving friends and family.
5 apps to exercise your brain
With the creation of puzzles and activities that can be accessed at the tap of your finger on your phone or tablet, here are five apps to download that can play a part in exercising your brain!
These apps can be downloaded from Google Play or the Apple App Store (with In-App purchases)
Sudoku.com – Mind Games
The Sudoku.com app has thousands of classic sudoku puzzles, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
Scrabble Go
Play the classic Scrabble game on your phone or tablet. You can play with friends and family or be matched with players of similar skill level.
Lumosity: Brain Training
Lumosity’s cognitive training program promises to be a fun, interactive way to train your brain. Games are designed to exercise memory, speed, flexibility and problem-solving.
Wordscapes
Wordscapes combines creating words with a crossword puzzle. The game features beautiful imagery from sunrises to forests, plus there is a relaxing soundtrack.
Patience – Solitaire Card Game
The iconic card game patience, where the aim is to move all 52 cards into 4 piles based on the 4 suits, can be found in app form. Key features of the online game include draw 1 or draw 3 cards, easy to read cards, and unlimited undo.
Many factors can influence changes in memory and thinking, some of which may be treatable.
If you are concerned about memory changes, always consult a medical professional.
This article was published in Good Lives Magazine – Issue 10.
Visit our blog to find out more about healthy ageing and social connection.
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