QUESTION: I am a senior approaching 75 and very concerned about cognitive decline. Are there any steps a person can take to eliminate or reduce the risk?
ANSWER: I am sure there are a number of readers who have this same concern. We all know that exercise and healthy habits help keep our bodies fit – so why not do the same for our brains.
The physical activities we do for our body also help our brain. Studies have shown that physical activity and healthy living helps reduce the risk of cognitive decline – so this benefit is twofold.
Socialization is very important. Not only is doing things with others good for us it is more than likely also more fun.
Staying social can be accomplished in a number of ways — perhaps joining an exercise class or gym or a walking club. Volunteering is another way to work with people and it also benefits the organization you select and your community. Your local senior center would be a great place to checkout activities being offered.
Not all our time is spent with others. We all have some time alone and we can also put this alone time to good use. This is an opportunity to challenge your mind – doing the daily crossword puzzle or Sudoku in your daily newspaper is an easy way of putting your mind to work. Also don’t forget books – reading is an excellent pastime and keeps your mind active.
You might also think about signing up for a class or two at the local community college or on-line.
Good brain health as well as physical health needs both good nutrition and sufficient sleep. Try to eat a balanced diet each day and get at least six hours of undisturbed sleep each night.
If you have changes to make in your life style now is the time to make those changes. Being part of the activities rather than watching the activities is much more satisfying.
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QUESTION: I need to renew my driver’s license in early 2019. Can you tell me when the next “Will You Pass Your Next Driving Test?” seminar is scheduled?
ANSWER: The next seminar you mention is scheduled for Tuesday December 11 at the Simi Valley Senior Center. The 2019 series has not yet been scheduled but usually begins in March.
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HAPPENINGS:
THURSDAY – November 15 – 9:00 to 10:00 am – Presentation – “Ageless Grace Brain Health Fitness” – at Goebel Adult Community Center, 1385 E. Janss Road in Thousand Oaks. For reservations call (805) 381-2744,
THURSDAY – November 15 – 9:00 to Noon – Horse Shoe Tournament & Barbeque – compete with seniors age 50 plus in Goebel’s Annual Tournament – at Goebel Center, 1385 E. Janss Road in Thousand Oaks. Registration is currently in progress – call (805) 381-2744 to save your spot.
SUNDAY – November 18 – 3:00 to 4:30 pm – History Comes Alive – “SoCal Sisters Swing” – presenting a historical and musical tribute to the Andrew Sisters – at Goebel Adult Community Center, 1385 E. Janss Road in Thousand Oaks. Tickets are $5.00 and available at Goebel’s front desk.
WEDNESDAY – November 28 – 1:00 to 5:00 pm – AARP Smart Driver Refresher Course – at Pleasant Valley Senior Center, 1605 Burnley Street in Camarillo. Registration is required by November 21. For more information call (805) 482-4881.
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Betty Berry is a senior advocate for Senior Concerns. The advocates are located at the Goebel Adult Community Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 or call (805) 495-6250 or e-mail bberry@seniorconcerns.org (please include your telephone number.) You are invited to submit questions on senior issues.
