3 weeks ago
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IN THE vibrant tapestry of Jamaican culture, our seniors are the golden threads, weaving wisdom, tradition, and resilience into our nation’s fabric. Consequently, it’s American Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, an opportune moment to focus on brain health, a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially for those age 60 and above.
Brain health refers to the ability to remember, learn, plan, concentrate, and maintain a clear, active mind. It’s about keeping our cognitive functions like memory, decision-making, and attention in optimal condition. For seniors, nurturing brain health is essential for preserving independence and enhancing quality of life.
In Jamaica, approximately 5.9 per cent of older adults are affected by dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease accounting for 61.8 per cent of these cases. Factors such as low educational attainment and physical inactivity contribute significantly to this prevalence. By proactively engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, seniors can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and continue to lead fulfilling lives.
WHY SENIORS SHOULD STAY SHARP
Maintaining mental sharpness is akin to keeping the engine of a classic car running smoothly. It ensures mobility, autonomy, and the freedom to navigate life’s journey. For seniors, staying cognitively active means retaining the ability to manage daily tasks, make informed decisions, and enjoy meaningful interactions with loved ones. It’s not just about adding years to life but adding life to years.
STRATEGIES FOR MAINTAINING COGNITIVE HEALTH
1. Engage in traditional games: Participating in culturally significant activities like dominoes and ludo not only provides enjoyment, but also enhances strategic thinking and social interaction.
2. Pursue artistic endeavours: Crafting, painting, and other forms of art stimulate creativity and fine motor skills. Golden Designs, for instance, offers art classes tailored for seniors, transforming traditional crafts into fashionable items. As craft enthusiast Dorrett Forsythe attests, “Craft is therapy for us and a way of earning some funds.”
3. Stay socially connected: Regular interaction with family, friends, and community groups fosters emotional well-being and mental agility. The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) organises events and programmes that encourage social engagement among the elderly.
4. Challenge the mind: Activities such as reading, solving puzzles, and learning new skills keep the brain engaged. The NCSC’s initiatives often include educational workshops and classes that cater to diverse interests.
5. Physical activity: Regular exercise, such as walking or dancing, improves blood flow to the brain and supports overall health.
HERE’S HOW SOME SENIORS BOOST BRAIN HEALTH
* Journalling
– Kay
* Playing mind games – scrabble, solitaire, Sudoku, and many other options available in the Play Store.
– Janett
* The brain is both physical and mental, so I keep it active by gardening, exercising, and learning new things like pottery.
– Janice
* Bible reading and discussion, quizzes (Bible or general knowledge), crossword puzzles and word searches, writing novels and life stories, researching topical issues, meeting friends and participating in social events, and dancing and listening to music.
– Celestine
* I read, do crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and attend various classes to learn something new.
– Rosalee
* I do so many things. Playing online games like Bubble Shoot, Solitaire, and Jigsaw puzzles; using brain-training apps like Elevate; reading law novels (John Grisham is my favourite!); photography; listening to music; exercising; and always learning something new.
– Angela
Embracing activities that challenge and delight the mind is essential for maintaining cognitive health. By participating in culturally enriching and socially engaging endeavours, seniors can continue to shine brightly, enriching our communities with their wisdom and zest for life.
SOURCE: Golden Designs Blog, a subsidiary of Golden Designs. The entity provides arts training, product marketing, and information on ageing for the older adult population. They maybe reached at: goldendesigns60@gmail.com, or read their blog at www.goldendesigns.org
English (US) ·