The Elms Blog

How to Engage with Aging Gracefully

Jun 29, 2022

As we age there are many different changes that start to happen. Fortunately there are many things we can do to help prevent or slow the process of some of those changes from happening. Regular exercise, a good diet, and low to moderate alcohol consumption (all of which minimize cardiovascular risk) appear to help the aging brain as does increasing cognitive exertion in the form of meaningful activities. Physical and mental health may be the best defense against the effects of aging on the brain.

When you start to engage in personally meaningful activities whether it be exercise, games or hobbies, you feel healthier and happier. As we age it can be easy to give into that mindset and feeling that we may not be able to do all the same things we used to. It can leave us feeling discouraged and hopeless. It’s important to remember this is the perfect time to find new activities and hobbies to try. Learning new skills can improve thinking ability and memory. Some research on engagement in activities such as music, art, and creative writing has shown promise for improving quality of life, well-being, better memory, and self-esteem while reducing stress and increasing social interaction.

Try spending time again with old and new friends, or donate time to a local charity even from home. Trivia quizzes, arts and crafts, word puzzles, and book clubs are all great ways to keep your mind engaged and busy. Go out of your comfort zone and try something new, or pick up something again you used to enjoy.

Other Ideas to Keep You on Your Toes:

  • Use your non-dominant hand for everyday tasks (brushing teeth or eating).
  • Test your memory by creating a list. It could be a shopping list or 5 movies you want to watch, and then memorize them. See how many you can recall by the end of the day.
  • Jigsaw puzzles are a fun brain workout using strategy and problem solving skills.
  • Exercise is a great way to combine physical and mental workouts. They don’t have to get you sweaty – you can take a walk or do chair exercises.
  • Reading is a fantastic brain exercise that stimulates your brain and can slow cognitive decline. Pick up a book or magazine at your local library or even read the posters on the walls around you.

We Support Healthy Lifestyles

Our campus is staffed with professionals ready to provide assistance so that all of our residents can achieve health and wellness to the best of their abilities.

A full calendar of activities, including daily group exercise, provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy physical, mental and social stimulus that leads to a positive and purposeful lifestyle.

If you are wondering if The Elms’ unique and beautiful campus may be the right choice for you or a loved one, please feel free to arrange a tour by calling (401) 596-4630 or by sending an email.

 

 

Providing Safe, Comfortable, and Empowered Lifestyles

Enjoy the charm of victorian architecture, spacious and relaxing community rooms and outdoor spaces, a vibrant and historic downtown and local community, and award-winning care that is always close at hand.