You Can Still Exercise Your Brain!
Forgetfulness can be a normal part of getting older, but this brain change can interfere with your memory and make it harder to learn new things. It can become frustrating if you are constantly forgetting where you placed something, overlooking errands, or having issues recalling fond memories.
Try solving puzzles. Different puzzles provide various mental, physical, and emotional benefits depending on what you’re working on. If it’s sudoku, you’re training the logical area of your brain when determining what numbers will complete the puzzle. For crossword puzzles, you use creative thinking, recalling, and knowledge-building skills. In word searches, you increase your vocabulary and improve your concentration skills to find different words. With more time on your hands, you can relax, socialize with others, and exercise your mind simultaneously. If you or your loved ones show signs of memory loss, seek consultation with a medical professional. If you need help assisting your loved ones with their daily activities, allow Visiting Angels to help!
Luckily, there are some exercises you can do to help sharpen your mind!
Play bridge. Card games are always a great way to socialize with others while stimulating your brain. The University of California Berkeley conducted a study on the card game bridge and found that it has positive effects on seniors’ intellectual and social well-being. The game provides a cognitive workout by strengthening concentration, organization, and problem- solving skills as well as short-term and working memory. Release your inner child — with coloring! Coloring isn’t just an activity for kids; seniors can also get in on the fun! Studies have shown that coloring can improve different motor skills beneficial to your everyday life, such as hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Coloring will also help strengthen your ability to focus while determining what color to use, how to shade the drawing, and staying within the lines. You can also use this activity to spend time with your grandchildren!
Craving a healthy dog for National Hot Dog Month? We’ve got you! Follow our recipe for a dog packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. (Serves 8) Healthier Hot Dogs With Slaw
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One of our caregivers told me a story about a senior she cared for who used to be a quilter. The caregiver just picked up the hobby, and it was something she and the senior did together. Not only do these conversations help seniors engage and develop relationships, but they also make older adults feel useful and valued — this can give them purpose. My grandparents passed away a few years ago, and some days, I find myself thinking, “I wish I would’ve talked to them more.” So, don’t wait until it’s too late to hear an elder’s story and all of the knowledge they’ve obtained over the years. Whether you are an adult child, grandchild, another family member, neighbor, or caregiver, take some time to talk to the seniors in your life. You can ask about the senior’s childhood, family, hobbies, good and hard times, lessons they’ve learned, travels, friendships, changes over the years, and career. You never know what you might learn.
Ingredients • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 green apple, peeled and diced • 1 red onion, thinly sliced • 1 small head red cabbage, cored and shredded • 2 tsp ground cumin • 1 tbsp grill seasoning • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar • 2 tbsp maple syrup • 8 organic chicken sausage links • 8 whole-wheat hot dog buns, toasted
Directions 1. In a large skillet over high heat, warm the vegetable
oil. Sauté the apple, onion, and cabbage and toss until wilted. Season with cumin and grill seasoning and cook for 10–12 minutes, until tender. 2. Add the vinegar and maple syrup, then toss to combine. Cook for 1 minute and set the slaw aside. 3. On the grill, cook your chicken dogs according to the package instructions. 4. Assemble the works, starting with the bun and piling in the chicken dog and slaw. 5. Dig in! For an extra health boost, serve with grilled summer vegetables.
Cindy Saunders, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Inspired by RachaelRayMag.com
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