Maintaining an active lifestyle is great for the heart, blood pressure, and the waist, but it’s also good for the brain, especially as we get older. By studying brain scans of older adults, researchers have learned that areas of the brain related to memory and decision making perform better among those adults who stay active. The active seniors in the studies tended to think faster and have a better memory.

By keeping active, seniors can improve their odds of avoiding memory loss and dementia. This benefit even rings true for seniors who are frail and limited in motion. The studies showed that even these adults can benefit from physical activity that is appropriate and safe for their condition.

When seniors make the decision to get active, it’s best to start slow and work up to longer or more difficult activities. A good goal would be 30 minutes of activity 5 times a week, but it’s okay if it takes some time to get there.

There are plenty of options older adults can choose from to stay active, and it’s important to pick something they really enjoy. A walk in the park, aquatic activities, or even dancing can all be counted as physical activity.

Adults who are frail or starting to experience limited range of motion should check with their doctors before they decide on a physical activity. They will likely require the presence of an able-bodied adult for safety reasons.

Keeping active is just one way seniors can improve their mental health. At Cura-HPC we want to help seniors stay mentally sharp and improve the quality of life for anyone in need of Tulsa hospice care. If you have a loved who needs hospice and palliative care, call Cura-HPC.