Games to Prevent Memory Loss

As the adage says, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste," and as a person ages, he or she becomes increasingly concerned with loss of memory. Just as our physical bodies need exercise, our minds need exercise too, through such activities as learning new recipes, taking classes in brand-new subjects through community education programs, or reading challenging literature. One of the simplest ways to keep your brain in shape is to play several games recommended for memory health.

Games Involving Strategy

• Chess is one of the most valuable games for keeping the mind alert. It challenges the player to predict what another player might do while simultaneously figuring out the most advantageous move for himself. The AARP even recommends joining a chess club not only for brain exercise but also for supportive solidarity. Another favorite amongst the AARP crowd is bridge, a card game involving a healthy dose of strategy that is also played with a group.

Word and Number Puzzles

• Many people make a daily routine of completing the crossword or Sudoku puzzle in the newspaper, an activity that is certainly healthful for the mind. Keeping cognitive skills sharp through crosswords, Scrabble and other word puzzles can delay rapid memory loss associated with dementia, according to researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, and challenging the brain early on can postpone negative effects of memory loss by maintaining "brain vitality." Not only are these methods effective to a degree, but also they are entertaining and relaxing.

Exercise

• Physical exercise is probably the most popular and effective way to prevent age-related memory loss, and it is important to note that physical exercise can include plenty of games as well. Any activity that is aerobic in nature will, at the same time, benefit both the body and the mind. This type of exercise should be age-appropriate and can include swimming, walking, playing actively with grandkids or forming healthful habits such as using the stairs instead of the elevator when possible.