Use It or Lose It

When it comes to how the mind ages, research is increasingly giving new meaning to the popular phrase “use it or lose it”. Mind games keep many aging minds young and vital.  So what are today’s seniors doing to keep mentally fit?  Many have said goodbye to traditional games such as bingo. They’re embracing new technology and gravitating to video games and group activities such as Scrabble^® and bridge tournaments. According to the latest research, it all helps.

• A 2013 study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Neurology provides specific scientific evidence supporting the concept that prolonged and intensive stimulation by an enriched environment, especially regular exposure to new activities, may have beneficial effects in delaying one of the key negative factors in Alzheimer's disease.¹

^·          2012 research reported in JAMA Neurology found that people who engage in mentally stimulating activities throughout life – especially in early and mid-life – have less buildup of beta-amyloid protein in their brains in older age. (Beta-amyloid is the main component of the sticky brain-clogging plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.)²

One deterrent for many seniors who would like to stay mentally active is lack of companionship – particularly for those older adults who live alone. Sometimes seniors just need a little encouragement from family and friends to help them pursue interests that can keep their minds stimulated.

From a scientific standpoint, multiple factors apparently contribute to a sluggish senior mind, said Ronald Petersen M.D. Ph.D., director of the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. In his words, “There is often a genetic component, but the environment plays a role as well. The cumulative impacts of medical issues such as vascular changes like hardening of the arteries also contribute to dementia.” He also pointed out that, “The connections between the nerve cells probably also don’t work as well.”

On the other hand, Petersen observes, the wisdom and acquired experience seniors bring to the table is often under-valued in society. That’s why exercising the mind as well as the body is such an important goal for older adults.

 “Whether it’s a computer game, crossword or Sudoku puzzles, or reading and analyzing a newspaper or magazine, first and foremost seniors should like what they’re doing,” Petersen said. “If the senior does not enjoy the activity, then it is not as likely to be beneficial.”

1. The Science Behind an Active Mind and Alzheimer’s Disease; Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Neurology; http://www.brighamandwomens.org/about_bwh/publicaffairs/news/publications/DisplayCRN.aspx?articleid=2143

2. Association of Lifetime Cognitive Engagement and Low β-Amyloid Deposition; May 2012; http://archneur.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1149704; JAMA Neurology

Tips for Mind-Stimulating Fun

Following, from Home Instead Senior Care^®, are ways to help engage a senior loved one in mind-stimulating activities:

Video action. Interactive video games have become popular for family members of all ages. Some games, such as Nintendo’s Brain Age, and the Wii home video game system, are particularly good for stimulating seniors’ minds.

Computer savvy not needed. Even seniors who are intimidated by the computer still can play online and other computer games. Why not try to help them get started playing Solitaire or joining an online bridge game?

Organize game night. Board or card games offer a great avenue for mind stimulation.  Why not encourage a senior loved one to get a few friends together to join in the fun?

The magic of music. Many seniors were avid musicians in earlier years and some may still have pianos or instruments in their homes. Ask them to play you a tune or challenge them to learn an instrument.

Tournament fun. Bridge and Scrabble tournaments for seniors are springing up around the country. Check with your local senior center or Home Instead Senior Care office to learn of any activities in your area. Or encourage your older adult to join a local bridge group.

Think big. Crossword, large-piece jigsaw and Sudoku puzzles are great pastimes for seniors who need a mind-stimulating activity when they are alone.

Out and about. Most communities have concerts, lectures and other pursuits that can interest seniors and their families. If your loved one is able to get out, consider those.

In the news. Many seniors maintain their interest in politics and current events. For their next birthday, why not renew a subscription to a newspaper or popular news magazine. Or organize a news discussion group.

Just the two of you. When it’s just you and your senior loved one, remember there are more things you can do than watch television. Games like Monopoly Express, Scrabble Express and Sorry Express don’t take long to play.