"Does your memory decline as you age?"...4 brain games that are good for you as you age.

Memory loss is inevitable as we age, but it can be slowed down. "It's normal for memory to decline as we age," Professor Takari Quimby of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California (USC) told Yahoo Life. "However, there are some things you can do to help keep your memory sharp."

Dr. Quimby advised, "Brain games and memory exercises stimulate neural pathways and promote neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to change and learn. This helps strengthen neural connections, which can enhance skills and memory." He added, "Engaging in cognitive challenges can improve cognitive function and potentially delay memory decline."

Dr. Gary Small, chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Center, said, "There are several studies showing that simple memory exercises can improve memory problems associated with age." Dr. Quimby and Dr. Small shared four brain games that can help improve memory. Dr. Small said, "Strengthening your memory muscles and developing strategies through these activities can really make a difference, especially if you practice consistently over time."

Chess = “Chess isn’t just for experts; it’s also great for strategic thinking and problem solving,” said Dr. Quimby. “It uses the brain by requiring players to remember the rules, track the positions of pieces, and anticipate their opponent’s moves.”

 

card game = Pulling out a deck of cards for poker or rummy has many benefits. "Card games are not only fun to play socially, but they also improve memory by requiring players to remember which cards they've played and guess what others might have," says Dr. Quimby.

 

Crossword puzzle = Crossword puzzles can be challenging, but challenging yourself is crucial for keeping your brain sharp. A 2022 study found that they were effective in improving memory and preventing brain atrophy in people with mild cognitive impairment. Finding the right words to complete a puzzle engages multiple brain regions.

 

Math Puzzle = Number games like Sudoku require analytical skills. "They develop pattern recognition and problem-solving skills, which are essential for short-term memory," says Dr. Quimby. A 2019 study found that engaging in mentally stimulating activities like number puzzles can improve brain function as people age.

"The key with these games is finding the right balance," Dr. Small said. "It's important to find the sweet spot where the activity is challenging but not too hard or too easy. If a brain game is too simple, it can become boring and fail to stimulate neural circuits. If it's too challenging, it can become frustrating and lose interest."

 

"Even 15 to 30 minutes of brain activity can improve memory," said Dr. Quimby. "Consistency is key. The more frequently and regularly you challenge your brain, the better the results." He added, "Varying the type of exercise can keep your brain engaged and make the process enjoyable and beneficial."

 

"It may depend on your daily routine," Dr. Small said. "Someone with a stimulating and challenging job may not need additional mental exercise to keep their brain healthy. It may be better to take a break at the end of the day to reduce stress."

 

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Sudoku is so much fun

But this is a cell phone

They say that doing it on a computer isn't very helpful.

 

I like paper booklets.