20 Brain Exercises for Alzheimer’s Care and Prevention

A number of research studies have shown that the brain has to work out, just as the body does to stay healthy.  Regularly doing activities that stimulate the brain can help prevent beta-amyloid deposits from developing in the brain, which can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

The following are some brain-stimulating activities that may help make a difference in Alzheimer’s care and prevention.

Reading & Writing

Reading is more demanding on the brain than processing images as it involves a number of brain functions, from vision to language, and associative learning. Writing is also beneficial for the brain as it requires eye and cognitive coordination. The following are some ideas to incorporate reading and writing into our daily lives:

1. Read Daily: Make an effort to ensure you are reading something every day, whether it’s the newspaper in the morning or a book before bed.

2. Join a Book Club: If you are a fan of reading, joining a book club is a great way to encourage you to read more books while having social interaction with others.

3. Write a Journal or Memoir: At the end of the day, try reflecting on what happened that day by writing down anything you observed or learned in a journal. Or look further into the past and write memoirs to share some stories from your younger years with family members.

4. Handwrite Cards & Letters: If you have a loved one with a birthday coming up, take the time to write them a card or letter – they’re certain to appreciate the extra effort that you’ve gone to.

Brain Games

Playing games is a fun way to train and exercise the brain. The following games may improve cognitive ability and can also help to prevent or even delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia:

5. Crosswords & Sudoku Puzzles: These word and number games can help improve ‘cognitive reserve’ which the brain can call on as it copes with losses due to age or disease.

6. Scrabble: Scrabble is a great workout for the brain involving words and letters.

7. Chess: A more challenging board game, chess engages the problem-solving areas of the brain.

8. Card Games: Card games are fun and social – and work the brain too! Get some friends or relatives together for a game of bridge, poker, blackjack or hearts.

9. Jigsaws: Putting jigsaw puzzles together is good exercise for the brain – whether it’s a 250 piece or 1000-piece puzzle.

10. Digital Games: There are a number of games available on our phones that engage the brain. Check out this list for some of the most effective ones: https://coolmaterial.com/media/8-mobile-brain-games-that-will-sharpen-your-mind/

Stay Connected

Staying active and engaged in life can help the brain stay active. Go to interesting places and do interesting things to stimulate your brain:

11. Libraries: Browsing the shelves at the local library can be an exciting trip out that can also keep your brain sharp. Many libraries are home to clubs and activities such as gardening, mah jong and many more.

12. Museums: Going to museums, art galleries or exhibitions can be thought-provoking and stimulate the brain.

13. Movies or Theatre: Movies and theatre shows stimulate the mind as well as the senses. If you can’t get out to the theatre, a number of movies and other shows are available online.

14. Volunteer: Get involved with a local community organisation not only to benefit your brain but to feel a sense of satisfaction that you’re helping others in need.

15. Foster or Adopt an Animal: Animals bring great joy to their owners. Looking after them also involves a certain amount of thinking, which can help with our brain functions.

16. Stay Social: Catch up with friends and relatives often to engage the social parts of the brain.

Learn Something New Every Day

Switching up the regular routine and trying something new can challenge the mind and stimulate brain stem growth.

17. Learn a New Word Every Day: Dig out an old dictionary and read it daily to find new words that you don’t know. Try to use the new word during the day or share the new word with someone to help you remember it.

18. Take a Different Walking Route: Try walking in a new place with different scenery and sights to stimulate the brain.

19. Learn New Information: Take the time to listen to a podcast or news show each day. Write down something that you’ve learned from the episode and use it in conversation.

20. Try Out a New Recipe:Cook something different to mix up your normal routine. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with a new cuisine like Indian or Moroccan food.

We hope that this article has inspired you to try some new brain-stimulating activities. If you’re caring for someone with dementia and would like to know more about how BrainSparks programs such as Compassionate Touch® and Dementia Live®, contact us.