While physical health is often prioritized in comprehensive senior care programs, cognitive health deserves just as much attention. An active mind is essential to everyday life, so older adults should engage in activities that encourage stimulation. For some seniors, this can be achieved through adult day care. Here are a few reasons why your elderly family members should be engaged in social and mentally stimulating activities.

3 Reasons for Older Adults to Stay Mentally Engaged

1. Support Cognitive Function

Social connections and intellectual activities strengthen nerve cell connections, which reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. Stimulating activities in adult day care, such as playing checkers or chess, keep the mind active and could even protect the brain’s cognitive reserve.

2. Facilitate Quality Sleep

Adults who have difficulty sleeping could benefit from maintaining social connections, especially with peers in the elderly community. For example, participating in group activities, such as volunteer work and book club discussions, can increase sleep duration and quality. Positive social interactions and engagement in joint activities can support better psychological well-being, resulting in better sleep.

3. Increase Longevity

Seniors who have a strong relationship with family, friends, and community experience fewer health issues and live longer overall. Socializing and staying mentally engaged with others may reduce the harmful effects of stress, like coronary artery problems, poor immune system function, and issues with insulin regulation. Seniors are encouraged to participate in activities that bring them joy with the people they care about, even if it’s simply listening to a friend or exchanging ideas.

If your elderly loved one could benefit from a stimulating environment, contact the team at Seagull Schools Adult Day Center in Honolulu, HI. This adult day care facility is part of Adult Day Centers of Hawaii and has nearly 20 years of industry experience. The seniors experience programming that stimulates physical and mental well-being, including walks on the facility’s landscaped grounds and field trips out of the adult day care center. Learn more about their programming online, or call (808) 674-1160 to inquire about enrollment.