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What reading can do for your health.

What a healthier brain? Pick up a book or newspaper. Reading is good for you in ways you don’t even realize, and it may help extend your life.

A recent article on SeniorHousingNet.com says, “Frontiers in Psychology indicates that those who engage in regular reading have an advantage over those who read casually or don’t read books at all when it comes to cognitive awareness. Additional research has also shown that reading books regularly can actually reduce stress, help improve sleep and even increase life expectancy.“

The article says reading benefits include:

  • Improved memory
  • Maintain/improve cognitive function
  • Increased empathy
  • Improved sleep
  • Reduce stress/anxiety
  • Delay dementia

Check out your local library or download books with an e-reader. SeniorHousingNet has terrific suggestions and more details on the documented benefits reading provides all of us. Click here to read the article in its entirety.

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Keeping your brain healthy as you age.

It’s a concern that affects all of us – how can we keep our brains healthy as we grow older? We want to stay sharp and ward off memory loss when possible. Brain health has a profound effect our ability to enjoy life and keep ourselves healthy and safe.

While you can’t prevent certain medical conditions, there are some simple things you can do to help keep you brain healthy. SeniorLiving.com offers some great tips:

  • Exercise – get your blood flowing.
  • Get enough sleep – it helps your brain repair/regenerate.
  • Eat a healthy diet – health food supports brain health.
  • Participate in mentally stimulating activities – challenge your brain with puzzles and reading.
  • Stay social – social connections are key to brain health.
  • Manage stress – try meditation or yoga.
  • Avoid risky behavior – avoid smoking and excessive drinking.

Read up on brain health. Many physicians note small things that can make a huge difference such as laughter and ensuring you have a sense of purpose. Senior centers are returning to their pre-Covid schedules and are a great place to get started.

>>Click here to read the full article and explore more resources from SeniorLiving.com.