Mental well-being and cognitive health have gained significant importance over the past few years. These two are related concepts that focus on different aspects of an individual's mental health. Cognitive health is important for senior citizens, especially dementia care patients. It refers to the well-being of the brain and its ability to perform mental processes like learning, memory, decision-making, problem-solving, and attention.
The increasing global old-age population is turning cognitive impairment (CI) into a major public health problem. CI is described as a condition where elderly people have trouble remembering, learning, concentrating, or memorizing, affecting their everyday decision-making abilities and overall quality of life. CI can progress into other conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease which have a more significant impact on the health and wellbeing of seniors.
Top activities that help improve the cognitive ability of seniors.
Maintaining good cognitive health is important for the elderly to lead a quality life and engage effectively in daily activities. Enhancing cognitive function can include various fun activities that keep seniors engaged and stimulate their mind.
● Reading: A great habit even otherwise, encouraging seniors to read books of their choice, newspapers, or magazines helps stimulate the brain and keeps the mind active.
● Puzzles and Games: Whether it is solving a daily crossword or sudoku, trying jigsaw puzzles, or a game of chess or cards, these activities involve strategy and think-through that challenge the brain and improve problem-solving skills.
● Art, craft, and hobby: Painting, knitting, making a photo collage, cooking, or playing a musical instrument are all great ways to get those creative juices flowing. Taking up a hobby or learning a new skill helps create neural connections, keeps in the hands busy, and the mind active.
● Brain games: There are various apps that have been designed to improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. These are engaging and fun games that involve math, words, shapes, etc. and have time limits to make the games challenging.
● Exercise: Regular physical activities like walking, swimming, or workouts are beneficial for both the body and the brain. It has been linked to improved cognitive function.
● Yoga and meditation: Practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness help reduce stress, relax the body, improve focus, and contribute to overall cognitive well-being.
● Music therapy: Playing an instrument, singing, or listening to music have positive effects on mood and cognitive function.
Beyond these activities, socializing and maintaining connections are vital to better mental wellbeing and cognitive health. Engaging in conversations involves remembering names and keeping up with topics of discussion. Spending time with friends and family can stimulate cognitive function, help seniors fight loneliness and boredom, and stay active.
Dementia care and cognitive function
Dementia is a general term used to describe symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills that are severe enough to impact and reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Memory care homes are designed to help Dementia patients with a secure and safe environment and structured routines that help reduce the pace of cognitive decline.
At Antara, we have specialized Memory Care homes that cater to the unique needs of Dementia care patients. We offer comprehensive neuro cognitive care, and the team of experts cater to patient needs and assists them in carrying out their everyday tasks. The multidisciplinary care team helps residents deal with cognitive and psychological changes that affect memory and social abilities, navigate them better, and improve their overall quality of life.
Antara Memory Care Homes offer a safe and secure residential facility for Dementia care patients and provides specialized therapies like occupational therapy, balancing therapy for fall risk, cognitive stimulation therapy, and speech and swallow therapy. We also provide clinical wellness solutions, mental stimulation activities, and emergency support for patients enabling them to lead their lives with dignity.
To know more about our first-of-its-kind facility for holistic care of Dementia patients in Gurugram, click here or call us on +91 98114 41111.
