Brain break games represent small but powerful opportunities to boost your cognitive abilities while having fun at the same time. Whether you opt for a Sudoku puzzle or mindful coloring, there is something for everyone.
According to the CDC, one in 10 seniors reports cognitive decline associated with memory loss. While 10% may seem like a small sliver, it actually amounts to millions of people suffering from decreased cognitive abilities.
For seniors in Port Townsend, WA, brain breaks can be a wonderful way to maintain cognitive health. With so many options available, they can pick and choose which activities encourage playful cognition and support mental fulfillment.
A brain break is a structured break, usually around three to five minutes, that can serve as a cognitive reset. Brain breaks can involve anything you would like, and they can be as simple as taking time away from a screen or doing a quick yoga session. Brain break games are very popular because they turn brain breaks into fun moments for seniors.
Brain break games have numerous benefits, no matter which types of activities you choose. Here are some of the key mental benefits of these versatile activities.
When you're struggling mentally, a brain break can provide much-needed relief and positively distract you. Sometimes, stepping away from a problem allows you to approach it again from a new angle and find an effective solution.
Brain breaks allow your brain to take a breather and re-energize, which can make all the difference when you are in a tense and stressful situation. Allowing your brain to focus on something else makes it easier to deal with stressors later on.
If you are suffering from dementia or you have a high risk of developing it, brain breaks play a huge role in keeping your mind healthy. They can also slow down the progress of the disease, allowing you to remain independent for longer than you anticipated.
While exploring brain break games, you may discover a new passion or interest. Try plenty of different activities and make note of the ones that stand out, so you can add them to your regimen.
Once you learn about all of the advantages of brain break games, you may be wondering where to begin. The best brain break games are versatile, challenging, and fun.
Sudoku involves placing digits of 1 through 9 in nine boxes, rows, and columns. The goal is to ensure that no box, row, or column contains two of the same number. Puzzles range from easy, with many more numbers filled in, to difficult, where you may have to use more logic to discover the solution.
Whether you use an app or a book, crossword puzzles also come in a variety of difficulty levels. You can also pick out puzzles based on preferred themes. For instance, the crosswords in People Magazine are often inspired by celebrities and pop culture.
Solitaire can be played with a physical deck or on a screen. It involves drawing cards and trying to form four equal streams that have alternating suit colors, from king to ace. There are many rules to memorize, such as understanding that you cannot put a card of a higher value underneath one of a lower value.
It depends on your preferences, your health conditions, and more. For instance, if you have dementia, you may need to spend more time to maintain existing skills and slow down the progression of the disease.
For seniors who are still relatively sharp, cognitive stimulation could just mean a handful of minutes completing a crossword puzzle or a word search. Many apps allow you to set aside a designated amount of time every day to challenge your brain.
The timing of your cognitive activities can also depend on personal preference. Some people find they are most alert when they wake up in the morning, while others may benefit from a cognitive boost to take them out of an afternoon slump.
Cognitive decline can begin as early as your thirties. Dartmouth Health reports that your cognition typically peaks at around age 30, then incrementally begins to decline. In your sixties, processing speed begins to slow down as well, which is when cognitive decline may become more noticeable.
People who experience significant cognitive decline earlier than 60 should consider getting checked. This type of dropoff can often indicate conditions such as early-onset dementia or an undiagnosed brain injury.
There are many different opinions regarding the difference between physical and digital learning materials. Physical books or flashcards can be cumbersome and aren't as portable as a cell phone or tablet.
However, Scientific American reports that pen and paper are more effective for retention than a tablet. This means that practicing your cognitive activities may be more beneficial when you use physical materials.
Ultimately, the choice is up to you. You can also use a mixed method approach, keeping a paper book or activity packet at home and using your phone or tablet while on-the-go.
As you age, you should not have to worry about whether your brain is functioning at its peak potential. With these brain break games, you can have plenty of options for both entertainment and education.
At Victoria Place, our caring and dedicated team emphasizes the importance of senior engagement, especially in terms of mental reset for seniors. Our activity calendar includes many events designed for cognitive stimulation, and amenities such as our exclusive Vibrant Life® program encourage residents to focus on whole-body health.
Are you considering moving to an assisted living community? Reach out to us today to learn more, or visit our stunning community in Port Townsend, WA, to see it in person. We can't wait to meet you!