Start These Brain Exercises To Keep Dementia Away

There is no cure for progressive neurological diseases such as dementia. However, diagnosed early it is possible to slow their onset through physical exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy. Daily brain exercises and an active lifestyle are great for brain health and function.

Rehabilitation for patients with slow-onset dementia also involves recreational therapy and occupational therapy. These therapies fall into two categories – outpatient or inpatient treatments. Rehabilitation also requires the provision of lots of emotional support and counseling.

If you or a loved one notice early signs of dementia, be sure to seek medical advice. Medical professionals can explain different rehab therapies which can make a huge difference to quality of life.

Senior woman filling colors on a sketchpad as part of brain exercises

Exercise And The Brain

Daily exercise can take many forms, and all are beneficial for the brain. Aerobic exercises which get the heart and lungs moving help deliver oxygenated blood to the brain, improving its function. Daily stretching exercises, breathing yoga exercises and enjoyable fun activities that keep you busy and active are also great brain exercises.

Whenever the opportunity arises to engage in activities with others, take it! Dancing, for instance, gets you moving, talking, and having a good time. If that’s not for you, try chair yoga, Pilates, or Tai Chi, or simply take a walk, preferably with a companion. The key thing is to have a plan of enjoyable physical and other activities that also exercise the brain.

Humans were made for physical and social activity, so it stands to reason that keeping physically active promotes overall well-being. This includes memory and analytical skills. Moving around and engaging with others requires you to think and is the perfect brain exercise.

An active lifestyle, combined with a healthy diet, can prevent or slow loss of cognitive function in dementia patients. Evidence is accumulating that this can promote cell survival and natural linkages within the brain (synaptic plasticity).

Puzzles, cards, video and other games

Keeping your brain active is key to your emotional and physical health. Social events with games and puzzles as well as fun activities lead to conversation which is a great brain exercise. Having the opportunity to reminisce about the “good old days” stimulates the memory and the brain.

One way to do this is to get into a routine of doing a jigsaw puzzle or a sudoku. Playing cards gets you thinking and stimulates the brain.

Watching a video or playing video games is also a form of brain exercise, but don’t overdo it. Try to mix sedentary activities with physical activities as you go through your daily routines.

People with early onset dementia need constant reassurance and little boosts to self-confidence. Tailored rehabilitation therapy may involve occupational, cognitive, and physical therapy. Fun activities, conversation, a laugh, and friendly smiles support brain exercises.

If you live in Queens NY and are looking for a rehab setting for your loved one with dementia or yourself, look no further. We at Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens NY offer dementia care, rehabilitation therapies for patients with dementia and other neurological diseases.

This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.