New Hope for an Aging Brain
By David Larsen
Perhaps the most exciting discovery in modern brain research is the realization that even old brains can grow new nerves, which not only preserve but also expand mental capacities. More importantly, we now know how to promote this new brain growth, even into old age, and—best of all—it doesn’t cost a dime. All it takes is making better use of what God has already given us.
In the early 1990s, an order of 676 nuns in Minnesota agreed to join a study on aging and Alzheimer’s disease, conducted by Dr. David Snowdon from the University of Kentucky. One of Dr. Snowdon’s most fascinating discoveries was that some of the nuns who had died with Alzheimer’s, as evidenced by autopsies, had not shown the typical signs of memory loss during their life. Why? Dr. Snowdon concluded that these patients were those who had stayed more mentally active than their peers, learning and sharing new things, even as they grew older.
The process of acquiring and communicating knowledge appears to provide potent protection against memory loss. In fact, a recent major European study found “…the most effective neuroprotective therapy for Alzheimer's disease may well not be a pill, but education and intellectual activity.”
Best Brain Activities
You don’t have to buy fancy new software or do exotic brain exercises, even though these can be fun and helpful. Here are four free brain-strengthening activities.
Read and recite. Too often, we rely on television for education and entertainment. For brain health, resolve to turn off the TV and do something more stimulating. In fact, one study found we use more brain power while sleeping than we do while watching TV. Why? Because while dreaming the brain is still creating pictures and scenarios—an important intellectual activity. But while sleeping is good, reading is much better for the brain. When we read, we translate the letters into words and create corresponding pictures in our head.
If you would like to double the benefits from reading, try this simple exercise. After each page or perhaps each paragraph, put down what you are reading and ask yourself, “What did I just read?” That simple act of recalling and reciting what we read can help strengthen our memory. And for even greater brain benefits, share what you’ve learned with someone else—a family member, friend, neighbor, your dog, or anyone else who will listen.
Social interaction is another great boon for the brain. People who seldom talk with others are more than twice as likely to develop dementia. On the other hand people who often talk, socialize, and share with others seldom develop this disorder. Seek out opportunities to connect with people around you, especially if you live alone.
Write. Another great activity, especially if you are on your own, is writing. Writing to friends, family, and grandchildren not only forms bonds, but it can also keep you mentally fit. Using a computer for communication is especially easy—typing letters or e-mail messages may seem difficult at first, but that’s good for your brain. If you don’t have an e-mail account, invite someone to help you set one up. It’s easy and inexpensive. And don’t forget that handwritten letters also exercise your brain, while at the same time sending a message that you care about your loved ones.
Writing personal and family histories is another great activity for memory maintenance. Your experiences and wisdom need to be passed on to posterity. Your recollections of your life and family history may be one of the greatest legacies you can leave behind.
Arithmetic. Working math problems will help to exercise other important parts of your brain that often deteriorates with age.Test yourself! Do you remember your times tables? Can you count backwards by fives? How about sevens? Do you try to calculate the cost of your groceries while you shop? All of these activities can help keep these parts of your brain sharp. In reality, anything that requires us to focus, analyze, picture, problem solve, or remember specific facts is helpful.
Other great brain activities that require one or more of these skills include:
Puzzles: Try crossword, jigsaw or other puzzles, Sudoku, and other logic games.
Games: Rekindle friendships by various card, word, or board games, such as chess, checkers, dominos, Scrabble, charades, Jeopardy, or Wheel of Fortune.
Handicrafts: It’s never too late to learn or just to rekindle your passion for creating! Try knitting, crocheting, sewing, woodworking, leatherworking, or surprise someone—or yourself—by fixing something around the house.
Learning: Attend a class or lecture, study a new topic at the library, discuss politics or religion with someone of a different opinion, learn to play the piano or some other instrument, or memorize poems and verses.
And many more: Planning a trip or budget, balancing your checkbook, visiting a museum or mall, volunteering to assist others can help preserve your cognitive function. Any activity that activates your brain helps you maintain mental clarity!
Remember the brain was designed for lifelong learning. Use it—or lose it!
If you are interested in receiving the author’s free monthly newsletter on brain research, call (801) 497-9768 or e-mail him at DavidRJL@aol.com.