How to Look After Your Cognitive Health in Later Life

As we get older, and mobility declines, it can become more challenging to maintain our regular routines. However, keeping both our bodies and minds active is essential to staying happy and healthy in later life. Read on to discover key ways to look after your cognitive health and keep your mind sharp. 

Staying Active 

Regular physical activity is essential for heart health, coordination and muscle strength, balance, energy and mood. Where possible, taking a brisk walk is a great way to stretch your legs and get your heart pumping. 150 minutes of brisk walking or another type of moderate exercise is recommended each week. Alternatively, for more vigorous exercise, like running, 75 minutes a week is recommended.  

If mobility is limited, there are many exercises you can do at home, either standing or seated. These exercises can be tailored to your mobility level and go a long way in keeping you fit and active in later life. 

Meet Up with Loved Ones 

Spending time with friends and family works wonders for our mood and is crucial for maintaining cognitive health. Regular social interactions help reduce stress, boost self-esteem and provide a sense of belonging, all of which contribute to our mental well-being. Whether you like to get outdoors or have a cosy night in, connecting with loved ones boosts mental well-being and brain function. 

Diet 

Diet is important throughout our lives, as what we put into our bodies fuels our brains and bodies for daily activities. Studies have found evidence that a healthy, balanced diet may delay or even prevent the onset of dementia, making food intake increasingly important as life goes on.  

The MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay), which is rich in plant-based foods, is recommended for its role in helping boost brain function. This diet emphasises root vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains, pulses, fruits, nuts, poultry, and fish while limiting red meat, dairy products and sugar. 

Prioritise Rest 

A good night’s sleep is essential for our brains to rest, recover and function properly. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night, as this can help improve brain function, memory and your ability to carry out daily activities. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, consider visiting your GP, as certain health conditions can disrupt sleep, making it harder to get the rest you need. 

Challenge Your Brain 

Just as physical activity exercises your body, it’s important to engage your mind to maintain cognitive function. There are many activities to keep your brain active, such as crossword puzzles, word searches, or games like Wordle. If wordplay isn’t your forte, try a jigsaw puzzle, start a new hobby or learn a musical instrument. Practising these activities regularly can help improve memory and cognitive retention over time. 

Alfix – Stairlift Services and Disability Equipment in Bromsgrove 

At Alfix, we’re a stairlift rental company operating in Bromsgrove, Warwick and beyond that is dedicated to providing disability equipment and stairlift services that help you navigate your home with ease.  

To learn more about how stairlift rental in Bromsgrove can improve your accessibility at home, get in touch with our team at 01926 270 082.