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Take a multifaceted approach.
Playing games to keep the mind engaged should just be the first step, according to Karen D. Sullivan, PhD, ABPP, boardcertified neuropsychologist, owner of Pinehurst Neuropsychology Brain and Memory Clinic and creator of the “I CARE FOR YOUR BRAIN with Dr. Sullivan” program. “The most important thing that people need to know about protecting their brain is that you have to come at it from all angles, which includes mental stimulation but also our social health, spiritual beliefs and vital engagement with life,” Dr. Sullivan explains. “The brain is extremely complex, and therefore, one simplified approach like a supplement or doing brain teasers is not going to have a significant effect.” Dr. Sullivan recommends people boost their brain health with a three-pronged approach by trying new activities, focusing on activities that involve repetition, and increasing the complexity of activities.
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Stay active— and keep your mind fit, too.
What’s good for your body is also good for your mind, so be sure to keep that workout on your calendar, whether it’s lifting weights at the gym, working out at home with a fitness video, or even chair exercises if mobility issues exist. “There are both direct and indirect benefits to exercise,” Dr. Sullivan says. “Directly, we know that physical activity increases nerve growth hormone within the body and can help to increase the number of dendrites in our brain cells, which are the small structures that help connect one brain cell to another. Indirectly, an increase in physical activity improves the quality of our sleep and mood, which are two powerful influencers of brain health.” Need to be more active? Consider signing up for an aerobics class—which relies on repetitive movements. Yoga or Pilates are also good options, because they improve blood flow throughout the body and help center the mind. CONTINUED PAGE 28 JANUARY 2018 |
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