Mental exercise is an important component of senior care. Keeping the mind active and engaged improves memory and slows down the development process of mental conditions, such as dementia, that interfere with brain function. Here are some of the ways that you can help your loved one exercise their mind.

How to Keep Your Senior Mentally Engaged

1. Encourage Socializing

The more time your loved one spends talking and interacting with others, the more they’re having to think and respond to new information. You can help by visiting or calling frequently and chatting with your loved one. Also, help them choose an assisted living community with many social activities and a community of friendly residents.

2. Suggest Games & Puzzles

Some card and board games, such as euchre and checkers, require players to use their memory, math skills, and strategic planning to win, all of which are good brain exercises. These are great activities for when your loved one has visitors. When they’re alone in their senior care home or just need a little quiet, they can do puzzles like crosswords, sudoku, brainteasers, and word searches.

3. Plan Creative Activities

Problem-solving and learning new skills also uses plenty of brainpower. Meanwhile, making art or music activates the brain’s neurons in unique ways. Encourage your loved one to pick up a new instrument or a creative hobby like painting, or do crafts with them when you visit. You can also jump-start their memory with the songs they’ve always loved.

For quality senior care, including memory services, move your loved one to Longhorn Village. Located on Steiner Ranch in Austin, TX, this five-star rated senior living community serves Travis County and beyond. They believe in helping their residents live longer, happier lives through exercise, social interaction, continuing education, delicious and healthy food, home upkeep services to minimize stress, and spiritual support. Call (512) 266-5600 to ask about availability, or learn more about them online.