Games to Sharpen the Brain
Brain fitness and memory is an important part of the aging process. As scientists have learned more about how the brain works, it has been found that games and activities can help maintain and improve brain function. Physical and mental exercises are the best way to keep synapses firing in the brain as new material is learned. Otherwise, as aging occurs, brain cells stay stagnant and synapses are lost.
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Crossword Puzzles
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Choosing crossword puzzles that challenge you improve an area of the brain known as fluency, or the ability to understand speech and language. Crossword puzzles are easy to find and portable, as many crossword puzzle books are available that can be transported and used whenever you have some spare time. This is a perfect activity while waiting for a doctor's appointment or an oil change for your car. Make sure that the puzzle is not too easy or it will not challenge your brain.
Chess
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Chess can help improve your brain function because of the strategic nature of the game. It is different every time, so it does not allow complacency. Remember to try and challenge yourself by playing difficult players or adjusting the computer level to difficult. Chess is a game enjoyed by many so it will not be difficult to find others to play with. Chess helps with attention span by providing instant feedback and can provide pleasurable moments of victory, which is linked to learning.
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Sudoku
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Sudoku is a mathematical numbers game that can help the brain with logical thinking. It is helpful to both children and older adults because of its challenging nature in the area of mathematics. As people age, mathematics is often used less often, so this is a part of the brain that can lose synapses. Keeping the brain sharp by using mathematics regularly in a game like Sudoku can help maintain and improve memory function.
Other Games
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Play games with yourself such as trying new daily routines or routes to and from familiar locations. This keeps the brain fresh and having to concentrate, which helps it to remain sharp. Dancing and body movement, while not exactly a game, can also help to sharpen the brain, especially if you are trying something new and challenging your body. Fitness games such as basketball, biking or racquetball help improve brain function by providing the brain with the oxygen it needs to function at its optimal level.
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- Photo Credit blue brain image by John Sfondilias from Fotolia.com
