There are many advantages to ageing from an increased self-confidence and self-awareness to the ability to laugh at yourself and not take yourself too seriously, but there are aspects to ageing that worry even the most healthy and assured individual. For most of us, we have a plan to grow old with a degree of security and have our fingers crossed for good health, both physically and mentally.
However, the threat of dementia is very real and for those where there is an increased risk, thanks to a genetic predisposition, the battle against it starts in middle-age.
We take a look at some methods to combat dementia in older age and how you can help to keep your brain in great shape for many years to come.
Firstly, get those basics right in your life. Eat well, drink plenty of water, get plenty of rest, cut out smoking and don’t pile on the pounds. Simple, common sense approaches towards a happier and healthier body that have a knock-on effect to the health of the brain and its functions too.
An active, healthy body is one thing but keeping mentally on top of things plays a large role too. Challenging your mental abilities regularly is crucial for brain health so don’t think you’re too old to start a new qualification or learn a new practical skill or language. Read books that challenge you and make you want to debate key themes, indeed find others in a book club who want to take this up with you.
Taking up new hobbies that challenge your mental as well as your physical health are great for staying alert and active so if you’ve always had a burning desire to explore hydroponic gardening then check out https://thehippiehouse.com.au/collections/hydroponics for supplies.
Try and keep to as normal a routine as possible even when you don’t have to bound out of bed for work in the morning. Eating and sleeping at regular times helps keep the brain well rested and nourished. Sleep, in particular, plays a big part in keeping your mental functions working properly.
Finally, stay in touch with people. Despite not wanting to appear bothersome or in the way, staying social, talking, visiting and being part of a community are a crucial part of staying healthy. Studies show that meaningful interactions with people contribute a huge part in combating loneliness and isolation, which in turn can be detrimental to a person’s overall well being.
Looking after your mental and physical health can start at any age and is a sound investment for your future. While there are no guarantees that you can truly beat dementia, giving yourself a fighting chance of maintaining your quality of life in older age is the best thing you can start doing right away.
Staying physically and mentally fit is the best advice to follow and will help stave off all manner of illnesses and issues later down the line.
Treat your body like your best investment and enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle long into retirement.
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