When you’re in the Golden State, you want to be able to thrive in the sunshine—and in life—the same as everyone else. The biggest part of preserving quality cognitive well-being is to focus on brain health.
The Kensington Sierra Madre proudly announces its new webinar, “Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Brain in 2024!”
RSVP here to join us for this event on January 24th, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is a unique opportunity for seniors and their caregivers to gain valuable insights into maintaining cognitive health.
We’ve partnered with Dr. William Mansbach, CEO and founder of CounterPoint Health Services and a renowned expert in geriatrics and dementia care.
Dr. Mansbach will share research-backed, practical tips to enhance brain health, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and implement the transformative ‘15 for Me‘ program.
In this guide, we’re offering strategies to identify and address cognitive issues, track progress, and embrace lifestyle changes that promote cognitive well-being.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
What is cognitive decline and how does it relate to brain health?
Cognitive decline is the gradual deterioration of cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and reasoning skills leading to confusion and memory loss.
Conditions such as mild cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment are often precursors to more serious diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Understanding cognitive decline involves recognizing its causes and early signs to lead to proactive measures to maintain brain health.
Factors that affect brain health
As we age, changes in the brain can affect cognitive function. Cognitive decline is most common in seniors older than 70 years old.
Other issues affecting cognitive health include:
- Lifestyle choices, such as diet, physical activity levels, alcohol consumption, and smoking
- Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, which can lead to strokes
- Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
- Environmental factors, such as toxins and pollution
- Genetics, which can influence the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia
Recognizing early signs of cognitive issues
Among the earliest symptoms of cognitive decline are simple memory issues, forgetting important dates, missing bills, and repeatedly asking for the same information.
Early identification of these symptoms can lead to an early diagnosis with better management through memory care training to slow the progression of cognitive decline.
Other tell-tale signs of cognitive decline include:
- Difficulty concentrating or coordinating complex tasks
- Maintaining attention or focus during conversations
- Changes in problem-solving abilities
- Confusion with time and place
- Misplacing common items
Strategies to reduce cognitive decline
As we age, our brains need care and attention to maintain their cognitive abilities. In the senior years, brain health becomes even more important.
Cognitive decline may seem like an inevitable part of aging, but there are effective strategies to slow down this process and keep your loved one’s mind sharp and vibrant.
Let’s explore practical and enjoyable ways to nurture your loved one’s brain health.
Lifestyle changes for brain health
Regular exercises, such as taking a brisk walk, dancing, or even gentle yoga and tai chi can do wonders! It’s not about intensity, but about consistency.
Aim for activities that make your heart happy, the kind of exercise that makes you feel refreshed and invigorated.
Balance exercise with nutrition, focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, but also don’t forget blueberries, salmon, and healthy nuts.
Maintaining quality sleep allows the brain to undergo important maintenance. To make bedtime more enjoyable, try a relaxing bedtime routine of a warm bath or a cup of soothing tea.
Keep the mind engaged with mental stimulation, such as puzzles, reading, arts and crafts, and learning a new hobby.
Challenge yourself, but try to have fun and learn something new to improve “neuroplasticity.”
Social engagement and cognitive activities for a sharper mind
Socializing isn’t just fun, it’s great for your brain. Regular interactions with friends and family keep the mind active and the heart full.
Joining social groups, such as book club, gardening club, or crafting circle can be gateways to new learning experiences, keeping the brain enriched, engaged, and curious.
Finally, mindfulness and relaxation can manage stress, reduce blood pressure, and find calm and peace in each day, giving your mind a much-needed rest.
Identifying Issues and Measuring Progress
Knowing where we are and where we’re heading can make all the difference in improving and maintaining brain health.
Let’s explore simple ways to assess cognitive health and track its progress.
Self-assessment for cognitive health
- Try online brain games that track cognitive skills over time
- Use memory recall exercises, such as recounting details from a book or movie
- Complete crosswords and puzzles and note any changes in ease or difficulty
Tracking progress and monitoring changes
- Keep a daily log of mental tasks that are challenging or easier than before
- Use specific apps such as Lumosity and CogniFit
- Schedule annual check-ups with doctor to discuss cognitive health
Introduction to the ‘15 for Me’ program
Dr. Mansbach’s ‘15 for Me’ program is a guided, evidence-based initiative developed by BCAT® Research Center that focuses on brain health and stress reduction.
Through 15 minutes a day of wellness activities, this program should be a cornerstone of cognitive and community well-being.
The program targets three groups of people: seniors, caregivers, and healthcare workers.
Key components of ‘15 for Me’
For caregivers and their loved ones, 15 for Me encourages participants to work on meditation exercises and cognitive exercises, gives sample workouts, and provides stress reduction tools and strategies.
Caregivers will appreciate the program’s practical tips for supporting cognitive wellness in loved ones, including private resources with action plans to manage caregiver stress.
Improve memory and brain health at The Kensington Sierra Madre
The Kensington Sierra Madre is dedicated to enhancing cognitive health in our assisted living and our three memory care neighborhoods—The Kensington Club, Connections, and Haven.
We are committed to providing educational events that offer valuable strategies and insights for cognitive wellness, guided by experts in the field.
Our specialized memory care programs are designed for individuals at all stages of memory loss including dementia and Alzheimer’s, emphasizing our “age in place” philosophy.
Experience our community’s dedication to brain health and well-being for yourself.
Reach out to The Kensington Sierra Madre to schedule a visit, book a tour, and learn more about becoming part of the Kensington family.