Stimulating the brain

It is important to foster lots of connections between cells (neurons) in the brain. That way, if a neural pathway gets damaged from Alzheimer’s or other problems, the cells have alternative pathways to get the signal sent around the damaged area. A well-connected brain has more “resilience” against diseases that cause dementia. 

Brain cell connections and resilience is built when we complete complex tasks, over many years. What can you do that is new and requires complex brain processes?

• Learn a new language or instrument
• Instead of TV or movies, read a book and discuss with friends
• If you normally do crosswords, try a new puzzle game, perhaps one that involves numbers or shapes
• Instead of walking for exercise, try a video that requires you to listen and try new movements at the same time