Tips for Maintaining Healthy Brain Function
Alzheimer's disease, also known as just Alzheimer's, is the most common cause of memory
loss and cognitive function that can interfere with day-to-day activities.
In fact, Alzheimer's accounts for about
60-80% of dementia cases.
Fortunately, you can incorporate plenty of healthy habits into your routine
that helps support healthy brain function. In recognition of Alzheimer's
and Brain Awareness Month, the health experts at Kirby Medical Center
are here to share some tips and tricks to help support healthy brain function
as you get older.
Stay Physically Active
Leading a physically active lifestyle as you get older can promote cognitive brain function. This is because
physical activity stimulates the network connections within the brain,
subsequently increasing the size of the portion of the brain that creates
and stores memories.
According to the
CDC, it is advised that the average adult should strive to get at least 150
minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.
Catch Up on Sleep
Getting good quality rest each night also helps to support concentration
and critical thinking skills. The
American Sleep Foundation says that this is because getting 7-9 hours of rest consistently triggers
changes within the brain that help you to:
- Retain information
- Recall information later
- For new, complex ideas
- Problem solve and critical think
Play Puzzles and Games
Finding hobbies that challenge you mentally can also help to support cognitive
brain function. Participating in activities that force you to think strategically
and critically helps to
stimulate new connections between nerve cells. It can also help your body to produce new brain cells.
The next you find yourself with idle time, try out some of these activities
to give your brain a healthful boost:
- Reading
- Puzzles and board games
- Card games
- Playing an instrument
Contact Kirby Medical Center
At Kirby Medical Center, we are dedicated to helping our community learn
how to stay healthy and safe. If you are concerned about your health risks
and the types of vaccines that are right for you,
contact Kirby Medical Center
at 217-762-2115 to learn more about how we can assist with all your healthcare needs.