The risk for both mild and severe memory loss increases as we age. Seniors who want to take a proactive approach to their brain health may be looking for a few tips. Whether you are a senior, a senior center activity director, or an adult of any age—turn to the proactive tips below.

Learn Something New
Most of what we do in the day, we do on auto-pilot. This is because we have, for example, taken the same route on our afternoon walk for many years. However, by learning something new or simply doing something new—you stimulate other areas of your brain during the day and, maybe, even create more pathways in your brain.
So sign up for an art class, learn to play a musical instrument, teach yourself something new, or simply take a different route on your daily walk.

Exercise Regularly
Taking a 30-minute daily walk, as mentioned above, can provide the physical activity you require. Of course, you can kick it up a notch, or cater exercise to decreased mobility. Just don’t forget the importance of head-to-toe range of motion, as well as gentle stretching.

Rest Up
When you wake up each morning, it sometimes feels as though no time has passed—but rest assured that your body has been hard at work healing and repairing itself naturally. If you skimp on your sleep, your body and brain will not be able to work at their optimal level.

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies
Fruits and veggies are packed full of fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and nutrients. As a proactive approach to your brain health, aim for 3 to 5 servings each of fruits and veggies each day.

Play Brain Games
An inexpensive and convenient way to learn something new and actively exercise your brain, is to play brain games. While all games, such as cards and board games, will stimulate your brain, some games are specifically designed to stimulate your brain. Many of these games are electronic and can be accessed on any mobile device.

Maintain Your Regular Checkups
Last, but certainly not least, even if you feel good, you cannot skip your regular physicals. Your physicals are the best way for your physician to determine any changes to your health, and the sooner you can address a change—the better. Also make sure you follow doctors’ orders for any chronic health concerns, because overall good health is good for your brain too.

Taking a proactive approach to maintaining your memory and the brain health of the seniors you serve—will help you to live life to the fullest!