Have you ever heard the phrase “Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional”? This simple and humorous saying might seem a bit silly, but the main point holds true. As you age, you can still maintain a healthy and active mind by having fun, challenging yourself, and trying out new hobbies. Here at Evangeline Council on Aging, we’re passionate about helping seniors in our community live life to the fullest, and this extends to improving seniors’ mental well-being. Below, we’d like to share a few of our favorite tips for keeping your mind active and engaged during your golden years.
- Follow your curiosity. Learning about things you’re passionate about is a great way to connect to the world around you, meet other like-minded people, and exercise your mind. This can involve reading articles, attending lectures, listening to podcasts, or checking out the local library.
- Play strategy games. If you have a competitive streak, playing games like chess can be an excellent way to activate your brain. If you prefer solo games, Sudoku can be both relaxing and intellectually stimulating.
- Experiment with new hobbies. If you’re like most people, there are probably a few things you’ve always wanted to try but have never had the time or courage to do so. Now is your chance to learn how to play guitar, paint, do magic tricks, or anything else you’d like to add to your skillset.
- Stay social. Many seniors struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation, and this can seriously hinder their mental health. To create a healthier mindset for yourself, try to find a local group that shares your interests or attend an event or class where you can meet new friends. We also encourage you to check out the activities at our senior center and find something that appeals to you.
Contact us today if you’d like more information on ways to keep your mind active or would like to learn more about the services we offer.