Brain Boot Camp
At Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta., we strive to engage every part of our residents mind, body, and soul. Key components of our programs focus on mental stimulation because we know that we age both physically and mentally. And while we might exercise other parts of the body, we often neglect our brains. Our brains keep us breathing, moving, functioning, and essentially maintaining a good quality of life. Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta knows the importance of exercising and stimulating the brain. We have programs and activities specifically geared towards keeping the brain engaged. We must exercise our brains. The more we use our brains, the more we can protect against cognitive decline. Brain exercise helps to continuously build neurons for our body’s most vital organ. It is never too late for a senior living in Atlanta to work their brains. Here is how to get started today!
Exercising the Brain
- Challenge your brain: We need to keep our brains stimulated and the way we stimulate the brain is to give it new things to do.Play Scrabble, Suduko, chess or pick up the classic Rubiks cube. Challenging your brain is comparable to many brain boot camp.
- Try to do math without a calculator: Calculate in your head instead of relying on a calculator.
- Memorize your grocery list: This should be an engaging exercise, but don’t get too upset if you leave some of your groceries at the store.
- Listen to classical music: Get a little Bach in your life! Several research studies have shown that classical music has wonderful brain benefits.
- Exercise: Physical exercise is actually good for the brain because it helps to pump more blood towards the brain.
Check out this interesting video on brain health and physical exercise!
Stay tuned for more articles on brain exercise!
Read More
Henry and Music Therapy for Seniors
There have been numerous studies in recent years concerning music therapy and Alzheimer’s disease. The affect of music therapy on people with cognitive disorders and diseases has been well documented. We at Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta, Ga have used music with some of our residents through daily activities and have noticed a difference in engagement. Residents who are often reserved and less social will become alert and very engaged. The affect of music on seniors is quite remarkable. However, the story of Henry, a nursing home resident,was astonishing. Henry suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. He was isolated and relatively unresponsive. His speech- mostly incoherent. But, when given an i Pod with his favorite music, Henry is transformed. His brain seems activated and his spirit is engaged. Music therapy for Henry has brought back memories once lost in time. He remembers his favorite musician Cab Calloway and even sings his favorite tune. There have been numerous studies on the topic of music therapy, and Henry is proof that the power of music is indeed real.
Music Therapy: Both Art and Science
Music Therapy is uniquely different from other therapy’s in that is involves both art and science being both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Data is used to measure outcomes and is considered clinical. Music therapy can be prescribed by a physician, psychiatrist, or recommended by a psychologists, physical therapists, or occupational therapists.
Benefits of Music Therapy
- Improved awareness and concentration
- Improved memory and recollection
- Happier outlook on life
- Increases mobility and coordination
- Diminishes pain and improves recovery time
- Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
- Enhances interest levels and social interaction
Read More
Seniors Singing the Winter Blues
If you or a loved one has the winter blues here are a few things you can do put the jingle back in your bells:
1. Recognize the signs. Many people including seniors do not realize they are depressed. Symptoms of depression include persistent sadness; loss of appetite; withdrawal from activities once enjoyed; withdrawal in social settings; lack of energy and interest; persistent emotion which includes crying; feeling of helplessness; feeling of loneliness; changes in sleep patterns; inability to concentrate on any one thing; staring into space; anxiety and panic.
2. Get out of the house. One way to battle the blues is to get out and about. It’s amazing what some fresh air and interaction with others can do for the spirit. Volunteering is an excellent way to get out and help someone in need. This could help with the feeling of helplessness and worthiness mentioned above.
3. Spend time with family and friends. Spending time with family and friends consistently could help ward off the feeling of loneliness that often comes from continual isolation. Encourage your senior loved one to show family and friends around their homes, like we do here at Dogwood Forest’s assisted living community in Buckhead, GA.
4. See a healthcare provider. As mentioned above many seniors may not recognize the signs of depression. Therefore, it is at times left up to friends and family to recognize the warning signs and encourage them to seek help. Depression is a medical condition a healthcare provider can help treat. Doctors can prescribe a number of medications to help with depression, and counselors and psychologist can also offer non-drug alternatives.
5. Be a good listener. If a senior has decided to open up about their feelings, listen and be completely considerate. It’s important that you don’t dismiss ones feelings. Sometimes they are looking to someone to listen, even if they are silent.
Read More