Play a Musical Instrument
Do you play an instrument or have you always wanted to learn? For years, research has indicated that music uses a different area of the brain than speaking or writing. For example, individuals who have experienced a stroke and have difficulty speaking have been known to sing complete songs.
Although using different parts of your brain doesn’t guarantee protection against Alzheimer’s or other dementias, research has shown that people with dementia tend to respond well to music. And, at the very least, music is an enjoyable way to spend time.
Memorization
Do you have a favorite book, poem, or proverb? Set a goal to memorize a couple of verses or phrases a week. Choose something that will be helpful to have stuck in your mind.
For example, one woman decided to memorize some of her favorite verses. She felt that, in addition to exercising her brain, those words would also encourage her throughout the day.
