Train Your Brain: 7 Tips for Better Mental Health
Did you know that the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia increases with your age?
Studies show that even more than cancer, adults are more at risk of developing a brain-related condition. This is why, in addition to taking care of your physical well-being, it is equally important to look after your mental health in the later period of life.
You can improve your brain health considerably by making good lifestyle choices. How much and how regularly you exercise, how often you rest, what you drink and eat, and the way you socialize and manage stress are all critical to your mental fitness.
Here are a few tips from the experts to help improve your mental well-being:
- Feed Your Brain
Include low-cholesterol and low-fat foods that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin B12, C and E in your diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables that are beneficial for your mental health such as spinach, broccoli, kale, tomatoes, and berries. Have Omega-3 fatty foods such as halibut and salmon, as well as nuts like pecans, almonds, and walnuts. - Exercise Your Body and Brain
Regular physical exercise including going for a 30-minute walk can improve the blood flow and memory and help in the formation of new brain cells. This also stimulates changes that enhance thinking and learning and keep you in a good state of mind. In addition to this, doing mental exercises every day such as solving puzzles, writing, reading, and playing games can help build up brain-cell reserves. - Have Healthy Food & Nutrition
In addition to having food that stimulates the brain, it is important to cut down on unhealthy choices and saturated fats, as well as keep a check on blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels. Consuming a balanced diet is crucial for your mental well-being. Try incorporating antioxidants and other healthy substitutes such as olive oil in your daily diet. - Medical Health
Hypertension, depression, obesity, diabetes, higher cholesterol, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking increase the risk of brain-related medical conditions such as dementia. You can control and reduce these risks by consulting your doctor, getting your annual check-up done, following their recommendations, and taking the prescribed medications. - Rest and Sleep Well
Resting well and getting a good night’s sleep is crucial because it improves your mood, energizes you, and enhances your immune system. In addition to this, practicing meditation can help manage stress, encourage you to stay positive, and ward off the age-related decline in mental health. - Social Interaction
Studies have shown that people with an active social life even in the later part of their life experience the slowest rate of memory decline. Leading a healthy social life including spending time with your loved ones, engaging in stimulating discussions and staying in contact with your friends and family are good for your mental fitness and can protect you against memory loss. - Utilize Brain Training Apps
Maintaining high levels of mental activity can help keep your mind agile, healthy and alert. There are many mobile applications available for the sole purpose of improving brain health. You can make use of them to avoid any form of cognitive decline.
Skilled Nursing Services Can Help Improve Your Mental Fitness
The Holiday Retirement community has a nursing home in Rhode Island to look after seniors. We provide a variety of amenities to make your stay comfortable and hassle-free. Some of our services include:
- Individualized, comprehensive care planning
- Flexible visiting hours
- Hair salon facility
- Restaurant style dining
- Personal laundry services
We understand that good health starts with your brain which is why we give equal importance to physical and mental wellbeing by conducting physical, speech, and occupational therapies regularly.
For more information about our services, please get in touch with us by calling 401-765-1440. You could also take a virtual tour of our facility to learn what we have to offer you.