Dementia is a term used to describe chronic, progressive loss of mental function. Unlike age related memory loss, dementia does not affect everyone and is not considered a normal part of aging. Although some causes of dementia are beyond our control, there are some habits, hobbies and daily activities that you can incorporate into your life to lower your risk for dementia and/or to help slow down its progression.

The most well known, healthy lifestyle habits will lower your risk for many diseases, including dementia, i.e. regular physical activity, eating whole, nutrient foods, limiting excess sugar/salt/fat, not smoking, limiting our alcohol consumption, and getting treatment for chronic conditions like depression, diabetes, and heart disease.

Keeping your mind active is extremely important for continued mental health and creative hobbies have been proven to benefit the aging brain in many ways. An interesting new study has shown that Seniors and Active Older Adults with creative hobbies like wood working are 45% less likely to develop a mental impairment in life!

• Woodworking is a “whole brain activity”, meaning it’s blend of problem solving & creativity improve the connectivity between the two hemispheres of your brain
• Woodworking is de-stressing, is used to treat post traumatic stress disorder, and can ease depression
• Can reduce stress and improve immune system function
• Can serve as a form of “meditation” for some
• Woodworking can give you a mood boost and improve your overall outlook and disposition
• Woodworking can be an easy way to engage in socially with friends, the community, your family, and more
• Woodworking helps reduce a sedentary lifestyle for any fitness level and allows you to go at your own pace
• Read more here about why woodworking is a great hobby for seniors and anyone who wants to improve their mental health and function

If you are turning 65 and/or approaching Medicare or would like to make a change in your current Medicare plan, give me a call @ 814-380-1072 / 267-773-8003, visit my website www.rittenhousesquareinsurance.com or email me at tara@rittenhousesquareinsurance.com

Stay Safe & Stay Informed!