Undeniably, your brain health matters. You’re told to use your brain more and that this will help you age better, as well as thwart the possibility of dementia.

But what activities are you supposed to be doing? What kinds of activities will help the brain age gracefully and well?

Interestingly, the one concept that seems to stand against all others when it comes to the nervous system is that if you don’t use it, you lose it.

I’m not kidding.

If you don’t recall memories enough, they soon disappear and become difficult to remember. If you don’t perform a certain task often enough, it becomes more difficult to do.

Essentially, if you never use your memory or problem-solving skills, they may get lost in the abyss of time.

It’s all about training your brain and practicing these mental tasks. So, it’s time to put your health first. Schedule some time each week to practice these brain tasks. And hey, they can be fun! It doesn’t have to feel like work.

Here are 5 Activities for a Better Brain as You Age:

1. Test Your Memory

Now, I know most of us turn to our smartphones to remember lists, such as for groceries or out to-do tasks. Take a moment and try to remember them by using your good ol’ noggin. Memorize it. Then, an hour or so later, try to recall it.

Or do this at work every few hours. Make a list of office supplies. Try to memorize it within a few minutes. Then, set a timer for an hour or two hours later. When your timer goes off, try to recall those items. The more you do it, the better you’ll get at it.

There are also a ton of memory games you can try - from online variations to store-bought games. Keep it interesting. Your future self will thank you!

2. Start Doing the Math in Your Head

This is another one where you’re going to want to put away that smartphone. Rely on yourself and your brain here! Or at least try to.

This helps with problem-solving. It also forces your brain connections to actually work. In other words, you have to think about it.

Interestingly, math improves various parts of the brain, including the posterior parietal cortex, ventrotemporal occipital cortex, and the prefrontal cortex. The more math an individual does in their head, the more grey matter will be found in these areas.

Why does this matter?

The grey matter in the brain contains all your neural connections. This means you think and function better when there is more of it.

Start solving those math problems! Your brain health may depend on them.

3. Play Sudoku

Want a little brain health help or a brain pick-me-up? Play sudoku regularly. It improves your short-term memory and focus and concentration abilities.

And it can even become a competition with yourself. Can you eventually master the more difficult ones? How fast can you do them?

Make it fun and challenging. Time yourself. Or download an app on your phone for it - these often come with timers and scores showing you your personal best.

4. Learn a New Hobby

Like a new instrument! Music is said to be good for your brain. It’s also stimulating to learn something new - especially something involving hand-eye coordination.

Why learn something new?

Learning new skills or hobbies creates a very adaptable brain. It also impacts your memory and the speed in which you process thoughts and memories.

Basically, when you learn something new, your brain has to create new neural connections to adapt. In turn, it also replaces connections lost over time. It’s like it stimulates your brain to regenerate and revamp its neural networks. Pretty cool, huh?

5. Challenge Your Attention

Try doing math in your head as you ride your bike or drive your car.

Listen to a podcast or audio book while you workout.

These things build resilience when it comes to your attention and concentration, which actually declines as you age.

Or change up your habits by working in a new environment. Or taking a new route on your way to work. Or again, trying out something new. Your brain will become more alert and your focus and attention will vastly improve.

Use Your Brain More!

When it comes to brain health matters, most of the time it just comes down to simply using your brain more. This means relying less on technology and having faith in your own capabilities.

After all, the brain is the center of all that makes you - you. Take care of it as you would your physical body. That way, you can age happily and gracefully - without fear of losing yourself along the way.

Are you right or left brain dominant? Click here to find out!