Senior Activities that Promote Mental Health

The brain slows down as it ages, but it can be stimulated by exercising your mind. The brain needs constant stimulation to remain mentally sharp no matter what your age. So turn off the TV and pick up a good book. TV really is mindless entertainment. Do jigsaw, logic or crossword puzzles. Pick up a pen and write a letter to a friend, to the editor of your newspaper, send a review of a product to a manufacturer. Writing clarifies your thoughts, improves logic, and strengthens memory. Take up gardening. Learn how to play a musical instrument. Take an adult education class. At least once a month, do something new, even if it's just to try a new restaurant.

Remaining physically fit is also an important component in promoting mental health. Eat nutritious, wholesome meals. Go for a walk every day. Get enough sleep. Take a multivitamin. Drink in moderation. Lower your cholesterol.

Maintaining strong social ties helps to keep one's spirits up. We never lose our need for intimacy. Play cards with your friends. Make new friends at that adult education class. Mentor someone who needs a grandparent. Adopt a dog. Join the local senior center. Volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people.

Doing these kinds of things will not only keep your mind sharp, it will combat loneliness, create a positive attitude, give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose, decrease your need for pain medication, and lower the risk of arthritis, depression, and alcoholism.