A healthy Brain means more to gain! As you grow older, your brain is going to change. Although some mental decline is to be expected, there are steps you can take to slow that decline and decrease the risk of developing dementia. Proper brain care can even improve mental acuity over time. These tips can —  and should — be practiced by people of all ages. Miles Kimball offers unique and affordable products to help you keep your brain in shape.

1) Exercise Regularly

Exercise not only maintains your physical fitness, but it improves your brain fitness, too. Blood flow to your brain increases during physical activity, which research shows can help counter the natural decline in brain connections. Over time, physical activity can lessen and even reverse some of the mental consequences of aging.

Exercising for 30 to 60 minutes several times a week can Improve Cognitive Function and lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. You can get exercise by running, swimming, playing sports or even by walking around your neighborhood. If you need walking support, such as knee braces, ankle compression sleeves or mobility aids, you’ll find them at Miles Kimball, along with an assortment of at-home fitness tools and monitors.

2) Get Plenty of Rest

The importance of sleep can’t be underestimated. Restful sleep helps clear abnormal brain proteins, improves memory, boosts concentration, reduces stress hormones and has other benefits for brain function.

Getting seven to eight consecutive hours of sleep every night, rather than two to three hour naps, is most beneficial. If you suffer from sleep apnea or other sleep conditions, Miles Kimball has an assortment of sleeping aids that can help. Order a CPAP mask, snoring mouthpiece, calming medicine or light-blocking blindfolds to help you rest.

3) Stay Mentally Active

Much like your biceps or calves, the brain is a muscle. If you don’t use muscles, they get weaker over time. Puzzles, games and activities that engage your brain will improve cognitive function and keep it in shape. You should aim to incorporate a variety of activities into your day to work different aspects of brain function.

Shop at Miles Kimball for active activities, such as crossword books, word searches, Sudoku, card games and jigsaw puzzles for adults. Try to limit passive activities, such as watching TV, since they don’t stimulate the brain as much.

4) Eat Healthy

When you put good things into your body, you get good things out of it. A healthy diet will improve brain function by providing the nutrients it needs. Plus, healthy eating gives you more energy and improves sleep, making it easier to take other steps to improve your health.

Some of the best brain foods include nuts, seeds, avocados, blueberries, fish, green leafy vegetables and eggs. Try to limit your consumption of sugar, fatty oils, alcohol, fried foods and red meat. If you’re craving something sweet, try dark chocolate. Shop our food department for healthy snacks and treats to stock in your kitchen cupboard.

5) Stay Social

Research shows that living a solitary life increases the risk of depression, stress, memory loss and general brain atrophy. Look for opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones or make new friends in your community. Join a book club, host a game night, watch football with a group or call a few people each week. Remaining socially active will keep your brain strong and will help you feel happier overall.

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