March 1, 2024
It’s often said that learning never stops. As people age, they begin to think more deeply about many aspects of their physical and mental health. However, they don’t always consider “intellectual wellness” when thinking about overall health. What is intellectual wellness, exactly? It’s engaging in creative and stimulating mental activities to expand knowledge and skills. The desire for lifelong learning, sharpening critical thinking skills and engaging in intellectually stimulating activities is an important part of life, even as people get older.
Besides maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, promoting intellectual wellness in older adults can lead to increased mental alertness, reduced risk of cognitive decline and an overall positive mental state. Here are some tips to improve intellectual wellness for older adults.
Writing and Journaling
Activating the mind by writing down thoughts is an excellent opportunity to exercise the brain and express emotions thoughtfully. Writing is a creative outlet that is a healthy strategy to reduce anxiety and chronic stress.
Reading
Seniors can benefit from reading engaging literature or listening to audiobooks as it can expand their minds, enhance their intellect and promote relaxation.
Engaging in Art and Music
Art and music can stimulate multiple brain areas to promote harmonious interplay between both hemispheres. As a result, seniors experience positive emotions when they engage in artistic activities, such as painting.
Communication and Social Outlets
Regular conversations and interactions can help seniors maintain cognitive alertness and engagement. It raises awareness about isolation and provides support for those in need.
Playing Games
Who said that anyone is too old to play games? Games that stimulate parts of the brain, such as working puzzles and board games, can help with recall, memory retention and pattern recognition.
Did you know that EnerG by Aegis provides programs and activities that can improve intellectual wellness? Get your community intellectually engaged. Click here to learn more about our contract wellness services.