 | Michelle Gaborie LPN has been the Administrator for 5 years at Carrington Place and was previously the DON for 3.5 years. She has also been an LPN since 1992. For more information please contact Carrington Place 1909 E 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762, phone: 620-235-1212 |
Senior Living
2012-08-29 15:39:18
How can seniors help keep their mind sharp?
Q- My father will be moving to assisted living in the very near future. One of my concerns is that he will shrink away from life once he is there. Is there any way to help keep him as physically and mentally fit as possible?
A: While aging is a process where we do start to loose the ability to do things we once could, it is also a time of being able to do things we never could before.
Staying mentally and physically fit involves many things. It also involves staying social and having purpose. Those are both things that a reputable assisted living facility would take very seriously. It also involves many teammates—the senior, the assisted living employees, and the loved ones.
Here is a list of ways to help keep sharp and active:
1. Eat well. Make sure the diet is filled with brain healthy foods such as fruit and vegetables high in antioxidants. Foods such as fish, nuts, and seeds also help protect the brain.
2. Ask a physician about brain boosting supplements. Research shows that certain combinations of vitamins and other natural ingredients can help keep the mind sharp and alert. Some vitamins work against some medications, so be sure to consult a physician before considering any supplement.
3. Avoid junk food. Junk food contains many things that ultimately hinder the brain from working at full capacity.
4. Stop smoking. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen to the brain, which reduces brain function.
5. Exercise. Strength training and balance exercises help stimulate endorphins in the brain and help increase mobility. A regular plan of physical fitness now can also help avoid falls later.
6. Sleep well. A proper sleep schedule is very important for good health.
7. Continue learning. Learning new things challenges us and keeps the brain stimulated. Today, even mobility is not a hindrance when anyone can take a telecourse, online course, or even follow how-to broadcasts.
8. Begin a new hobby. Hobbies are a great way to get the mind engaged and involved with others.
9. Stay or get social. The lives of others can add to our own when we allow them. A social group provides stimulation, entertainment, education, and laughter.
10. Keep a journal. Recalling our past and recording our present is the perfect way to keep memories fresh.
11. Do puzzles. Puzzles cause us to reach and use parts of the brain we do not normally use.
12. Volunteer. Make your life about others.
Best wishes to you as you continue to show love and support to your father.
