Senior Brain Health: The Key to Maintaining Optimal Function Late in Life

Seniors and Alzheimers  |  September 24, 2024

What Every Senior in Victoria, BC Needs to Know About Maintaining Senior Brain Health

Senior Brain Health | When it comes to exploring the brain, it would seem that with each breakthrough the scientific community makes, new unprecedented questions arise. While this is certainly positive in that it allows research to become more focused, it also illuminates that the brain is vastly and endlessly complex.

Senior Brain Health FAST FACT: Even though the human brain represents only two percent of the body’s weight, it receives nearly a quarter of its total blood supply.

Despite all of its mysteries, one thing we do know is that the brain – like all of our organs – does indeed age. As we get older, the brain’s overall volume gradually decreases (at approximately 5% per decade after the age of 40), causing nerve cells to lose certain connections. Reduction in blood flow and certain cardiovascular conditions can add to this as well.

For seniors, these factors can contribute to occasional forgetfulness or memory lapses. However, significant memory loss is not a normal part of aging and may signal Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. If your elderly loved ones are experiencing memory issues, or difficulties with language, perception, or other cognitive functions, it’s crucial to consult a physician about these concerns.

Senior Brain Health: Four Ways to Keep the Senior Brain Healthy

Research has indicated that there are several ways that older adults (and those of all ages) can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline – many of which are beneficial for other aspects of the body. Encourage your aging loved ones to incorporate the following best practices into their lifestyle. Be sure that, before beginning any new exercise regimen or diet, your loved ones consult with a physician and dietician.

#1. Stimulation: 

In the last few years, there have been numerous research studies in the area of neurological plasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to structurally modify in response to new experiences. This “re-wiring” of nerve cells is actually what is at the center of most cognitive and physical rehabilitation practices. 

However, it essentially serves the same function for those looking to keep their brains healthy, and it can be done simply by learning new skills or keeping the brain regularly “exercised” through puzzles or games. 

Many suggest that seniors enroll in a class or other form of organized learning – which will help not only in developing new skills but also in cultivating socialization.

#2. Exercise Regularly: 

While it’s not exactly news that exercise is good for the body, it may come as a surprise to some that regular exercise also has quite an impact on mental health. Physical activity improves cardiovascular health, which in turn helps supply the brain with blood.

 It also helps in developing new/increasing existing neural connections (see neurological plasticity above), allowing the brain to be more adaptive. Research suggests that regular exercise can also significantly reduce mental stress. 

Some seniors may choose to join a class with close friends for exercise, but it can just as easily be done at home. The key is to ensure that the heart rate is elevated through moderate activity, for at least 20-30 minutes every day.

#3. Watch Your Diet: 

The food we consume has a direct effect on our mental wellbeing and health. In order to operate at its optimum level, the brain requires fuel in the form of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.

 If your current diet consists primarily of salt, sugar, fat, and refined/processed foods, consider switching things around. Studies show that diets consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, sources of B vitamins, and lean meats can significantly reduce anxiety levels and even the risk of depression.

#4. Stay Social: 

Although it’s not entirely understood how socialization bolsters brain health, studies show that a correlation between having strong social connections and longer life expectancy does exist. Interaction, whether it be with friends, family members, or next-door neighbours, appears to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall mental well-being. 

This is especially evident in those who volunteer their time to help others. Try reaching out through organizations, community centers, or schools to see how you can help make a positive impact on others – and the health of your brain.

Senior Brain Health: Best Practices for Optimal Function

What unifies all of these best practices for maintaining brain health? The key, as countless scientific studies would suggest, is engagement. In this case, it means getting out and meeting new people versus staying inside and watching TV, choosing to find healthy alternatives to cheap fast food, and finding ways to help not only yourself but those in your community as well.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

If your loved ones are working to improve their mental well-being and want to incorporate the aforementioned best practices into their lifestyle, we can help.

At Comfort Keepers® Victoria we feel that home is the best place to be.

Firstly, if you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care, overnight care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, senior living transition services, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Victoria provides in-home elderly care services

Comfort Keepers® trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. In particular, our Interactive Caregiving™ system provides care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Comfort Keepers® Victoria in-home caregivers can help with Interactive Caregiving™

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. As a result, personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Learn more about our unique service which offers respite care, overnight care, personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Victoria office.

Comfort Keepers® Victoria is proud to provide senior care and home care services to keep seniors safe in their homes.

If you are searching for home care near me, Comfort Keepers® Victoria can provide home care for the seniors of Victoria and the surrounding areas of Colwood, Saanich, Sidney, James Bay, and Oak Bay. Please call (778) 265-5999 and learn how your loved ones can receive compassionate, professional in-home care.

Quality and Accredited Respite Care for British Columbia Families

Comfort Keepers® Victoria has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada.

References:

• Harvard Health Publications. “12 Ways to Keep Your Brain Young.” Web. 2006.
• Everyday Health. “How to Stay Sharp As You Age” by Krisha McCoy. Web. 2017.
• Brain Facts. “What We Know – and Don’t Know – About Aging.” Web. 2012.
• National Institute on Aging. “The Aging Brain.” Web. 2017.

Share This Post: