With longevity on the rise, it may be more likely we’ll all be dealing with memory loss and other cognitive issues, in the later years of retirement. Don’t despair, there’s good news. According to Harvard Medical School, research has shown that keeping our minds active as we age helps maintain mental fitness. In fact, Harvard now offers an online Cognitive Fitness Course to help “boost your ability to learn, understand, and remember.” Here are more tips to help you get started.
Keep Moving
Believe it or not, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, staying physically active helps you maintain a sharper mind later in life. And when you consider the other advantages of exercising once you retire, it’s a win-win all around.
Keep Learning
Challenging yourself to learn something new is mentally stimulating. Learn a new language. Sign up for cooking, painting, art, or writing classes. Take lessons in a musical instrument you’ve always wanted to play. Or, combine mental and physical fitness with lessons in golf, tennis, yoga, ballroom and dancing. It’s never too late to learn something new.
“Research shows that people who actively mentor young people maintain better overall cognitive health including improved memory.”
Become A Mentor
Sharing your skills and knowledge is a great way to stay mentally sharp while giving back to your community and leaving a legacy. Research shows that people who actively mentor young people maintain better overall cognitive health including improved memory. Add to this, mentoring provides the benefit of feeling useful and making social connections that can provide a deep sense of well-being and happiness.
Start Meditating
Studies show that practicing meditation helps to strengthen our ability to focus and improve awareness while providing all the physical benefits of deep relaxation. Brain imaging technology reveals time spent in meditation stimulates wave patterns in various parts of the brain and can improve brain functionality over time. There is a wide range of meditation apps available online designed for Android and iPhones. Or, check to see if there are any meditation groups in your area that you can join.
Games & Puzzles
Did you know that games and puzzles can help improve memory, problem-solving skills, and the ability to recognize patterns? From games with others like chess or checkers to crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and other solo challenges, there is a wide variety of options. Joining a local Bingo game is a great way to challenge your brain while making new friends. Studies show that socializing with others also helps keep us mentally sharp. Also, make sure you’re prepared for the psychological effects of retirement.
