As we get older, our bodies start to age in mysterious ways. Not only do you have trouble moving the same way as you did when you were young, but you also have trouble remembering basic facts, word retrieval starts to become a chore and you become confused. Millions of seniors suffer from decreased cognitive functionality. However, a recent study shows that regularly employing brain training exercises can have long-lasting and potentially life-changing affects. In fact, training your brain can improve mental acuity for up to ten years, which means that you can enjoy your golden years with independence, clarity of mind and enjoyment. Here are some brain training exercise benefits for the elderly.
1. Prevent confusion, depression and other conditions that are common in elderly seniors with reduced mental capacities. A slew of physical and emotion conditions can be connected to decreased mental acuity. Confusion is at the top of the list - it can be scary to suddenly not know where you are. Plus, if you are a senior living at home alone, the confusion can turn into clinical depression, which could vastly lessen quality of life.
2. Avoid becoming dependent on nurses or other long-term care facilities. Long-term care facilities and nurses can be expensive. If you are retired, you could be having a tough time trying to get by with what you have. Throw in the medical expenses of needed help to live your life and you could be draining necessary finances. By engaging in mental exercises you can keep your brain sharp, so that you can manage your life and take care of yourself.
3. Protect against theft and scams that target the elderly. There are a number scams and frauds out there - all targeting the elderly. Why target the elderly? Well, because most elderly people are gullible - they'll believe whoever is on the phone. However, if you can keep your mind sharp and exercise your basic cognitive skills, you will be able to detect whether something or someone is out to get your money. Some of these scammers will rip off seniors for everything they have, which can be a devastating blow.
4. Decrease the burden put on children of elderly seniors. Not taking care of your brain and not exercising your basic mental functions will not only negatively affect you - it will also negatively affect the people who care about you. Indeed, some families spend tens of thousands of dollars caring for an elderly parent. Some children make sacrifices, like not having their own children - just so that they can care for a parent. By exercising your brain, you can take this burden away.
5. Live a longer life. Indeed, a stronger mind means better overall health. Plus, by being able to circumnavigate dangers and avoid falls, you may just live a longer life. Isn't there more you would like to see and experience? When you undergo brain training exercises, you may just give yourself those valuable years where you can get out and see the world. Don't you owe it to yourself?