Mental Health In The Elderly: 7 Ideas To Keep The Brain Active
Published: 23/04/2022
Mental Health in the Elderly - Fareham, Southampton, Gosport and the New Forest
Mental Health in the Elderly is hugely important. We all know we need to exercise our bodies to stay fit and well – the same is true of our brain. In fact, exercising the brain can help the elderly retain their mental abilities. It can also be a key aid to recovery for many conditions.
When you have an elderly relative who’s struggling, the temptation is to do everything for them. Naturally you want them to be comfortable and relaxed. But through encouraging them to do some things themselves you will be helping to maintain their cognitive abilities.
By using their brain in different ways, they’re able to maintain and even expand the network of neural connections, which will help keep the brain active for years to come.
The same is true of home recovery. If your partner has experienced brain trauma – such as a stroke – then this advice will help rebuild these important connections.
Gently coaching your loved one to remain independent will form a big part of their mental stimulation. But you should supplement this with additional activities. Here are seven of our favourite:
1. Doing a jigsaw
You may not have picked up one of these since you were little, but jigsaws provide a great puzzle to get the grey-matter working. The rules are simple, it has no time limit and there are so many available that you’re bound to find one that sparks their interest.
2. Going for a walk
Getting out and active has great physical benefits, but also delivers a mental workout. The change in surroundings means new sights, sounds, interactions, and challenges – providing great all-round stimulation.
3. Cooking something tasty
Preparing a meal provides a lot of mental dexterity – coordination, concentration and even a little problem solving. The results deliver a practical life skill but the whole process is beneficial. Start simple and make something they can really enjoy. Cupcakes anyone?
4. Playing digital games
You may think electronic games tend to be for youngsters, but the truth is – they are for all ages. And there are plenty around specially designed to work on things like memory and problem solving, not to mention quizzes, word searches, sudoku and much more. If you have access to a digital device, then give it a go.
5. Listening to music
Listening to music gives many psychological benefits, including general mental stimulation. Tap into nostalgia by finding albums and artists they used to enjoy. Or find a radio station that matches their taste, to give a nice variety of music, conversation and news – all of which provide a great little exercise for the brain.
6. Socialising with others
Communication is one of the biggest influencers of cognitive abilities – so social connection is hugely important. Your conversations will help, but encourage your loved one to participate in wider activities where possible. This could be joining a club, visiting a neighbour, or even just writing a letter to someone they know.
7. Trying a little craft
Using coordination and expressing creativity are going to have positive effects. Colouring-in provides a relaxing and simple exercise. But if you feel more adventurous, try drawing, knitting or creating a collage. And the more fun the better.
Did you know we run a monthly craft club for our Elderly clients at our offices in Fareham? It’s been great for our clients to socialise and is open to all. Get in touch and come along, we’d love to see you there. Send Alison an email on Alison.wooden@rightathome.co.uk if you would like to attend.
As you might expect, the more you practice the above, the greater the impact. So, try building these into your routine and keep things varied and fun.
Whatever you choose, be sure to keep your loved one mentally challenged on a regular basis. And if you need guidance or support, then we are always here for you. Right at Home Solent support a variety of clients with their Mental Health across Southampton, Fareham, Gosport and the New Forest.
