We know that taking care of our health is paramount in allowing us to live an active and productive life style. It is not only important to take care of our bodies but also our mental health or mental muscles. So both body and mind need regular exercise.
The Weizman Institute researchers recently published in Science magazine evidence of a unique “signature” that may prove to be the missing link between cognitive decline and aging. The findings showed that the health of one’s immune system plays an important role in maintaining normal function in the brain and preventing deterioration.
Not only do we need to ensure that our bodies are strong and we exercise muscles by walking, weight bearing or swimming but that we also have a well-balanced diet and we exercise our brains.
Choosing activities for the elderly can depend on many factors such as health, dexterity, vision, hearing, and dementia however, it is always possible to modify activities to allow inclusion.
Some ideas for the chair bound are using hand held weights and leg weights. Simple throwing and catching of a ball improves coordination
Those with low vision can benefit from listening to audio books.
Its also important to exercise memory . Simple games of memory or recounting life events is good exercise.
Cooking, craft such as painting , music, gardening ( edible window pots), hand massage and listening to current events are all good therapy.
