Brain Awareness Week (March 16-22) reminds us that brain health matters at every age. Our brain controls everything we do, from thinking and movement to memory and emotions. Keeping our brains active a little every day can go a long way in preventing a fall.
Like your muscles, your brain stays healthy when you keep it active. Our brain can still adapt and grow new pathways even in later life.
Everyday Habits That Support Our Brain
Physical activity – helps blood flow to the brain, keeps it working well and reduces the risk of stroke, decline in brain health and dementia. Try:
- 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days. Include strength and balance exercises every other day to improve your mobility too.
- Activities that combine thinking and moving (dual tasks) like dancing or exercising while solving a mental task (like counting backwards in 3’s from 100 or doing the alphabet backwards).
Eat well and stay hydrated – a balanced diet low in processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats supports both brain and body health. Even mild dehydration can change our thinking and mood, so keep a water bottle with you and drink often throughout the day. For more information, read the Stay On Your Feet® Fuel Your Body booklet.
Challenging the mind – to keep your brain active, alert, and improve your reaction time, try:
- doing puzzles like sudoku and crosswords
- playing games like scrabble, chess, bridge, and mahjong
- learning something new
- reading
- DIY projects
- knitting, sewing or arts and crafts
- cooking.
The Stay On Your Feet® eLearning modules are a great way to support your brain health while learning how to prevent falls.
Staying connected – joining a social club, spending time with family, playing with the grandkids, volunteering, or exercising with friends can help our brains stay healthy.
Having a good sleep routine – getting enough restful sleep helps with memory and problem-solving. Healthy sleep habits include:
- avoiding alcohol and caffeine in the evening
- switching off screens before bed.
Limiting or avoiding alcohol – alcohol damages brain cells. If you choose to drink, try:
- non-alcoholic drink alternatives
- keeping less alcohol at home
- only drinking with food.
Managing your medications – the side effects and interactions between medications cause you to feel tired, confused, and less alert. A yearly medicine review with your GP, or pharmacist can help ensure your medications remain safe and effective.
Looking after your hearing – hearing loss can make conversations tiring and may lead to reducing social interactions. Regular hearing checks and wear hearing aids when needed will help you stay socially connected.
If you are concerned about your brain health, talk to your GP. For more information visit the Brain Foundation.