Make better brain health a goal by doing something fun like puzzles, games and brain teasers. Studies show challenging the brain may help you keep your mind sharp. By making a habit of putting your thinking skills to the test, you can be your best as you age.
Your brain is a complex highway system
“Anything that forces you to figure something out can be good for your brain health,” said SSM Health neuropsychologist Diana Van De Kreeke, PhD. “Whether it’s learning a new language or playing games, your mind needs that challenge to keep your neural pathways intact. Think about the pathways in your brain as a highway system with multiple routes to the same place. The more pathways we have, the more backup routes we have. As we age, an unchallenged mind may lose pathways and then experience memory issues and dementia.”
Van De Kreeke says it’s important to find activities you enjoy, whether it’s crossword puzzles or the standard jigsaw puzzle. Even if you’re older when you get started, your brain can begin to form new pathways at any age.
“It’s never too late to start, but the earlier you start, the better.”
Doing puzzles with other people is good for you too
Does your family enjoy playing Scrabble together? She says social interaction can be an important part of the equation.
“In other words, there’s benefit to playing solitaire,” she says, “but even more benefit if you are challenging your mind with family and friends because social connection is a vital part of protecting your brain.”
Digital games versus paper and cardboard
Van De Kreeke notes people often tell her they are concerned about too much screen time, but she doesn’t see a problem with puzzling on your phone or computer.
“It’s all about how you are using that screen time. Scrolling on social media does not have a brain benefit, but games like Wordle, or matching games or even Solitaire, are a great way to challenge yourself. Whether it’s five minutes a day or much more time, it’s good for anyone at any age. The main thing is to find something you really enjoy so that you do it on a regular basis.”
