September is Healthy Aging® Month and a great time to get a better start on lifestyle and activity choices that impact our overall health as well as living independently.
Think that it’s too late to “learn new things” or live a better lifestyle in your older years ? No way! Research suggests that learning new things as you age may be key to keeping your cognitive skills sharp—and that middle-aged and older adults may be just as good at learning as younger people are.
According to Rachel Wu, PhD, an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of California, “we have to be learning new things throughout our lifespan to increase cognitive abilities and independence”…the question is, “what is the best way to encourage learning over time?”
10 Ideas On Ways To Increase Healthy Aging
Here at Sholom, we want you to live the best life that you are capable of living and we’re happy to share ten ideas on ways to increase healthy aging in your life.
Play Brain-Training Games: Games like Sudoku, crossword puzzles, chess, and other strategic board games can help improve cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving, and reasoning skills. Many apps and online platforms offer brain-training games specifically designed for older adults.
Practice Meditation and Mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness exercises can help improve focus, concentration, and cognitive flexibility. Practices such as yoga or tai chi also combine physical exercise with mental discipline, promoting both brain and body health.
Learn a New Language: Studying a new language is one of the most effective ways to keep the brain sharp. It challenges memory, enhances listening skills, and introduces new ways of thinking. Language apps, online courses, or community language classes are great resources to get started.
Pursue Hobbies that Involve Skill Building: Engaging in hobbies such as knitting, painting, cooking, woodworking, or writing requires learning new techniques and developing fine motor skills. These activities can provide cognitive benefits by keeping the brain active and engaged.
Engage in Volunteer Work: Volunteering not only helps the community but also provides opportunities to learn new skills and interact with diverse groups of people. It can involve mentoring, teaching, or even learning new administrative or technical skills. We would LOVE to have you as a Sholom Volunteer! CLICK HERE to learn more.
Attend Workshops and Seminars: Look for local workshops, seminars, or webinars on topics of interest. This could include anything from technology and photography to gardening and financial planning. Attending these events can provide both social interaction and mental stimulation. We host these events often, keep an eye on our EVENTS page and attend.
Reach Out and Connect: If you’re feeling lonely, take immediate action to build connections. Call someone, volunteer, or join a class. Engaging with others can instantly improve your mood and outlook. There are many local supports for social connectedness, reach out to our team if you’re feeling isolated and need a resource.
Get Your Body Moving: Walking is not just good for your health; it’s a great way to meet your neighbors and start conversations. If you have a dog, let them be your social icebreaker.
Prioritize Your Health: Schedule your annual physical and any necessary health screenings. Stay proactive about your health so you can focus on living your best life without constant worry.
Discover Your Creative Side: It’s never too late to learn something new. Take up music lessons, painting, or woodworking—whatever creative endeavor you’ve always been curious about.
Contact Us Today
In summary, you have purpose, gifts, and the ability to learn something new no matter your age. Let us help you discover yours and live a healthier life, aging with purpose at Sholom.
Call 651.369.6481 to learn more about Sholom and how we can support healthy aging initiatives in your life.
