If you walked up to ‘off-the-clock Claudia’ and asked for my recommendation, without providing any additional context, I’d confidently say “Miku” – their torched salmon rolls are a must-try!
But if you walked up to ‘Claudia the physiotherapist’ and asked for my recommendation, without providing any additional context, I’d probably say “move more, and sit less” – because this is essential for improving mobility and function.
Simple physical activities such as moving around the house, going on a walk, and even stretching help maintain muscle mobility and strength, improve circulation, prevent major diseases, and promote bone, ligament, and tendon strength.
While movement is a major focus of physiotherapy – especially for seniors – having a strong body also requires a strong mind. Mental strength can often be overlooked by patients when recovering from an injury, maintaining bodily function, managing chronic conditions, enhancing performance, and so on.
Hence, from early adolescence to our golden years, keeping our muscles in shape is certainly important; but keeping our memory sharp is equally as vital. And for seniors, it should be emphasized even more.
You see, cognitive health is just as crucial as physical mobility, and that’s where cognitive training games come in. These simple yet effective exercises can help maintain mental agility, improve memory, and even reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
The Link Between Brain and Body
In the same way that regular exercise helps keep your muscles strong and improves range of motion for your joints, mental workouts help keep the brain active and engaged. Studies have shown that cognitive stimulation can slow memory loss, improve problem-solving skills, and even enhance mood. For example, a recent study by Yale University found that dance sessions twice a week improved mobility, strength, mood, and cognitive abilities in seniors, including processing speed, attention, and cognitive flexibility. More importantly, a sharp mind can support balance, coordination, and reaction time—key factors in things like fall prevention and, ultimately, overall independence.
How Cognitive Training Games Keep Seniors Sharp
Cognitive training games challenge different areas of the brain, from memory and reasoning to attention and language. Seniors who engage in consistent mental exercises also report increased confidence in daily tasks and regular engagement in these activities has been linked to improvements like:
- Improved short- and long-term memory
- Faster reaction times and decision-making skills
- Enhanced concentration and focus
- Increased confidence in daily tasks
For seniors recovering from injuries or undergoing physiotherapy, cognitive exercises can also support rehabilitation by reinforcing neural pathways and boosting mental resilience.
The Best Brain-Boosting Activities Ranging From Sudoku to Virtual Reality
Cognitive training doesn’t have to be complicated – there are plenty of engaging ways to keep the brain active and some top options include:
- Classic Puzzles – Sudoku, crosswords, and word searches help with memory, logic, and problem-solving.
- Board Games/Card Games – Chess, Scrabble (my mom’s personal favourite), and even a simple game of cards can enhance strategy and cognitive flexibility.
- Digital Brain-Training Apps – Programs like Lumosity, Elevate, and BrainHQ offer personalized exercises targeting various cognitive functions, while games like Wordle can help patients improve memory, problem-solving, and cognitive flexibility.
- Virtual Reality/Interactive Games – VR-based brain training is emerging as an exciting tool, offering immersive experiences that challenge spatial awareness, memory, and multitasking.
How to Habitually Incorporate Brain Training into Daily Life
The key to cognitive training is consistency. Here’s how seniors (and their caregivers) can make it part of everyday life:
- Set aside 10-15 minutes a day for a quick brain workout.
- Combine mental exercises with social interaction – play board games with friends or do puzzles with family.
- Try multi-sensory learning – listen to audiobooks, learn a new language, or take up a creative hobby like painting or playing an instrument.
Oh, and most importantly, keep it fun! The more engaging the activity, the more likely it will become a lasting habit.
Pair Physical and Cognitive Health for Optimal Wellness
Just as we prioritize physical exercise, keeping the mind active should be part of a senior’s overall wellness routine. Cognitive training games are an easy, enjoyable way to promote brain health, enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life. Whether it’s solving a puzzle, playing a game of chess, or exploring the world of digital brain training, every little mental workout counts.
At Get Right Physio, we are dedicated to supporting the comprehensive well-being of clients like you. While our primary focus is on physical rehabilitation, we recognize the profound connection between physical and cognitive health and encourage you to explore cognitive training activities as part of your wellness journey. For personalized guidance on maintaining both physical and mental agility,
contact our team of experts.