5 Ways To Improve Memory Power and Boost Brain Health
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
For more information about the author, click to view their website: The Terraces At Bonita Springs
Feb 04, 2022
Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
There is a reason why little memory lapses are known as senior moments ,says Michele Wasserlauf, Executive Director at The Terraces at Bonita Springs. Our mental capabilities start do slow in our 60s and 70s, and that's natural just like how our physical abilities decline, especially if we aren't vigilant about using them.
That's why, says Michele, its important for seniors to take steps to keep memory and brain health as strong as possible. Our brains are very much the definition of use it or lose it, Michele explains. Taking steps now to keep your brain running at peak performance will pay off greatly as you age.
In honor of Healthy Aging Month, we've put together some information on how to improve brain health and memory function. These are all things that you can start putting into practice today, no matter how old or young you may be.
How Can You Protect Your Brain from Cognitive Decline?
When we hear the words cognitive decline, many of us automatically jump to the conclusion that were talking about dementias like Alzheimer's disease. However, cognitive decline is simply the decline of mental function due to age or another underlying reason. According to the article25 Ways To Improve Your Memory, our brains are particularly adept at forming new connections and strengthening mental sharpness even once cognitive decline is experienced. Here are some lifestyle tips to follow.
Learn something new. Taking a class, learning a language, playing an instrument or picking up a new hobby are all great ways to get your brain active and engaged. Learning a new skill requires repetition, problem-solving, memory skills and curiosity. These are all important factors when it comes to keeping brain cells active and brains healthy. As with any form of exercise which learning a new activity can be its important to choose something that interests you and doesn't force you to go at a breakneck pace. Brain exercises, crossword puzzles and other cognitive games are great ways to enhance memory and improve cognitive abilities.
Eat a healthy diet. Our diet influences so many aspects of our overall health. Eating a diet that is focused on keeping your heart healthy will provide benefits for your cardiovascular system and your brain (since the brain is fueled by the oxygen-rich blood that is pumped through your body). Its important to check with your doctor and get medical advice about any dietary restrictions or needs you might have, but here are some general rules to follow:
Choose dark leafy greens, like kale, spinach and Swiss chard
Eat foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish like mackerel and sardines
Opt for healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados and other nuts and seeds
Snack on berries and dark chocolate, which are rich in antioxidants and can help your body fight against free radicals
Look for other brain-boosting vitamins and minerals like beta carotene
Get regular amounts of exercise. Exercise goes hand in hand with a healthy diet as a tentpole of a healthy lifestyle. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity at least 5 days a week. Exercise can be just about anything that gets your heart pumping and your blood moving. Gardening, walking around the block, dancing and cleaning the house are all acceptable and beneficial forms of exercise.
Hang out with friends and family. Staying socially connected boosts brain health in many ways. Being social reduces stress, improves mood, stabilizes emotions, keeps us mentally active and boosts serotonin production in our brains (the happy hormone). A lot of times, social events can be paired with other brain-healthy activities like exercise or taking a class. Its also been proven that eating with others helps older adults eat healthier and make better food choices. So when you're going out to dinner, having coffee with a friend or going on a walk together, you're not just nurturing relationships you're feeding your brain!
Get quality sleep regularly.
Getting a good nights sleep is essential to your brain health. Recent research has found that restful sleep helps to clear our brains of beta amyloids, which are proteins that have been linked to the development of dementias like Alzheimer's disease. In order to get the best possible rest, make sure that you practice good sleep hygiene. This includes making sure your bedroom is at a comfortable temperature and is dark and quiet. Having a nighttime routine can help get your body and mind ready for sleep, too. Be sure to avoid alcohol and caffeine too late at night, and be sure to turn off any screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Senior living communities like The Terraces at Bonita Springs encourage a brain-healthy lifestyle, says Michele. With senior living events, nutritious meals, engaging activities and events, socialization opportunities, fitness classes and more, seniors will find that keeping their brains healthy and active has never been easier or more fun.
About The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Recreation, special events, holiday celebrations, educational programs, guest speakers and a variety of inspiring activities take place throughout the year at The Terraces at Bonita Springs as part of the community's active lifestyle programs. The Terraces is the only Life Plan Community for senior living in the Bonita Springs area. Living choices include independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. All levels of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing and memory support, are open for direct admittance with no entrance fee.
Other Articles You May Like
Navigating Retirement: Mastering Emotional Downsizing with These Essential Tips
As retirement draws near, many people find themselves confronted with both the physical and emotional challenges of downsizing. While the idea of simplifying life and reducing possessions can be refreshing, it can also feel daunting. This transition offers a chance to rethink your lifestyle, and understanding the emotional landscape of downsizing is crucial. Here are essential tips to help you navigate this process during retirement.Understanding the Emotional Journey of DownsizingDownsizing is about more than just getting rid of things; it marks a significant shift in identity and lifestyle. Many people experience sadness, anxiety, or even guilt when letting go of belongings that have accumulated over the years. Recognizing that this emotional journey is a common experience can alleviate some of the stress.To manage these emotions, consider writing in a journal or discussing your feelings with someone who understands. A study from the American Psychological Association found that expressing emotions can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Engaging in conversations about your feelings can make the process feel lighter.Creating a Vision for Your RetirementBefore you begin the downsizing process, take time to visualize your ideal retirement. Ask yourself what activities excite you the most. Do you want to travel the world, spend more time with family, or pick up new hobbies? Having a clear vision will help you identify which items enhance that future and which ones can be eliminated.Creating a vision board can be a powerful tool. Gather images and words that resonate with your retirement goals. Displaying this board can serve as daily motivation and a guide throughout the downsizing journey.Setting Realistic GoalsSetting achievable goals is essential for a smooth downsizing experience. Break the process into manageable tasks. For example, you might allocate specific days to focus on particular areas: one day for the garage and another for the living room. Establish a timeline; perhaps aim to declutter one room each week over the course of two months. Celebrating these mini-milestones can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.Involving Family and FriendsDon't hesitate to lean on family and friends during this important time. Involving others can offer both emotional support and practical assistance. They may have insights into the sentimental value of items or even wish to take some belongings off your hands.Such interactions can transform the downsizing experience into a collaborative effort, making it not just a task, but a meaningful shared journey. Prioritizing Sentimental ItemsWhile decluttering is vital, it's equally important to recognize items that hold sentimental value. Consider creating a "memory box" to store your most cherished belongings. Think of items like wedding rings, baby shoes, or family photos that evoke strong memories.By focusing on a limited selection of meaningful objects, you honor your past while making room for future experiences. Embracing the Concept of "Joy"Inspired by Marie Kondo's philosophy, allow the idea of "joy" to guide your decision-making. As you sift through your belongings, ask yourself if each item brings happiness. If not, consider letting it go.For example, a kitchen gadget you havent used in years may be taking up valuable space. Releasing items that do not bring joy can create a more positive mindset and simplify your living space.Exploring the Benefits of MinimalismMinimalism goes beyond owning less; it offers a path to enhanced well-being. Studies show that clutter can heighten stress and distract you from what truly matters. By reducing distractions, you can create a serene environment that aligns with your envisioned lifestyle in retirement. Imagine waking up each day in a space that feels open and calming, fostering clarity and focus.Knowing When to Seek Professional HelpIf the emotional weight of downsizing feels overwhelming, dont hesitate to seek professional support. Many experts specialize in the emotional and logistical aspects of this journey.Professional organizers, therapists, or support groups can provide practical guidance and emotional reassurance. Reflecting on Your AchievementsAs you progress, take a moment to acknowledge your efforts and celebrate your achievements. This practice can boost your motivation and assist in emotional processing during this significant change. Consider keeping a journal to document your feelings, accomplishments, and insights gained throughout the downsizing journey. This reflection fosters a deeper understanding of your emotional landscape and helps maintain your focus on the transition.A New Chapter of FreedomDownsizing as you retire can be an emotional process, but it also represents a unique opportunity for personal growth and freedom. By understanding the emotional aspects, setting a clear vision, involving loved ones, and embracing a minimalist lifestyle, you can thrive in this new phase of life.Approach this transition with an open heart. Let go of what no longer serves you, making space for joy and a fulfilling retirement. Every step you take towards emotional downsizing brings you closer to the enriching life you desire
A Place to Age with Grace: AltaVita Senior Living Residences
AltaVita Senior Residences is a dream come to fulfillment for the Macy Family. The longtime Longmont locals desired a way to give back to the community in which they grew up. And what better way to deliver on that commitment than to provide a multigenerational housing opportunity for Colorado families: three levels of continuing senior care on one campus in an unmatched, upscale environment. Filling a niche for older folks who want a place to call home for years to come, AltaVita has thought of every lifestyle element that seniors desire and deserve in an adult living community. Here a foundation for a brighter future is built on a unifying philosophy: Always put the resident first. This means providing for all aspects of the aging process 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. People are living longer and healthier lifestyles, and theyre remaining active, says Linda Berens, the campus Executive Director. Because of that many are looking for a multi-tiered campus offering continuing care within the familiar lifestyle. From involving family members in each residents life to creating a secure residence for those with advanced memory-related illnesses, AltaVitas well-designed campus and comprehensive services are built from the ground up to address and enhance every moment of daily living. One AltaVita residents family member said it best recently: I cant truly convey the appreciation I have for all that you have done. You have all been such a blessing to my mom and our family. The AltaVita team holds one another to a higher standard, which honors the important work they do, assisting the people who need them most. Enrich and enhance the lives of everyone we serve with respect and excellence: the AltaVita mission is confirmed daily by all the smiling faces. Three levels of care on one campus AltaVitas Longmont campus consists of the Memory Care Community, which opened in 2012; the Assisted Living Community, which followed in 2016; and the Independent Senior Living Community, which opened in June 2019. By building the community in three phases, planners have been able to thoughtfully design each building with residents in mind, taking into consideration the type of care they need and the amenities that will best suit them, explains Don Macy, owner.Memory Care Dr. Haleh Nekoorad-Long, M.D., a certified geriatric psychiatrist, is the medical director of AltaVita Senior Residences and works primarily with aging adults and issues regarding dementia, depression, and bipolar disorder. Recognized by the Alzheimers Association as a Leader in Dementia Care, the AltaVita Memory Care Centre is setting a new standard in Colorado for exceptional care for people with memory-related issues. AltaVita Memory Care Centre runs an adult day program, with respite services in suites specially designed for residents with Alzheimers and dementia. Additionally, care is customized for every residents level of dementia, ranging from acute medication management to the sense of freedom that comes with visiting AltaVitas beautiful garden patios and spacious, secure courtyard.Assisted Living With access to the same welcoming outdoor landscape, the AltaVita Assisted Living Community offers an upscale service focused intention. On the main level a great room welcomes visitors with a cozy fireplace, tavern, bistro and ice-cream parlor, and plentiful seating areas. The second floor overlooks the great room and features a large community room for varied activities as well as a comfortable lounge. Inclusive to the Assisted Living lifestyle are three meals every day, housekeeping and laundry services, social and recreational activities, 24-hour staffing, medical transportation, and emergency and nurse call systems. Independent Senior Living This is AltaVitas newest addition to the campus, a community for active adults who would like the enrichment of community life free of the responsibilities of home repairs. This maintenance-free lifestyle, including housekeeping, dining and transportation services, is designed to maximize that freedom and minimize those pesky daily duties. The new three-story building contains 84 stylish apartments with nine different floor-plan designs ranging from one bedroom, one bath to two bedrooms plus den and two baths. All include full kitchens, walk-in closets, large showers, washers and dryers, and private patios. The independent lifestyle program includes top-notch services and amenities like a full-service salon, fitness center, wellness programs, Tai chi classes, bistro and bar, housekeeping, and restaurant-style dining room. And when the outdoors beckons there is easy access to hiking, biking, and walking trails. On behalf of the family, we wish to extend our gratitude to such an excellent place for Vern to live, report family members of the experience of their loved one at AltaVita. The friendliness of the staff is beyond compare. We are very impressed with the quality and freshness of the food; the execution of meals; the presentation of such meals.Whole-life WellnessAltaVita believes one of the most important aspects of maintaining good mental and physical health among an aging population is lifestyle. And thats where AltaVita really shines. Supporting every part of the individual, AltaVita subscribes to Whole-Life Wellness. The methodology is envisioned to enhance residents health through seven critical aspects of wellness: social, emotional, spiritual, environmental, vocational, physical, and intellectual. For more information on AltaVitas progressive approach to maximizing the lifestyle of seniors, visit altavitaliving.com or call 888.745.8268 to schedule a free tour.
Discover Affordable 55+ Living at Garland Commons
Located in the heart of Maple Grove, Garland Commons offers a brand-new, affordable living option for adults 55 and older. Opened in 2024, this thoughtfully designed community combines modern amenities, spacious floor plans, and a prime location to create the perfect home for active adults seeking comfort and convenience.Modern Apartments Designed for Your LifestyleGarland Commons features a variety of one- and two-bedroom floor plans, ensuring you can find the layout that meets your needs. Each apartment is designed with convenience and style in mind, offering:In-unit washer and dryerAvailable quartz countertopsWalk-in closetsPrivate balconiesFree underground heated parking, with electric vehicle charging stations availableAmenities to Enhance Your Everyday LifeGarland Commons boasts an impressive array of community amenities designed to foster social connection, relaxation, and entertainment:Fitness center for maintaining a healthy lifestyleLibrary with a fireplace, perfect for quiet readingGame room featuring a pool tableCommunity and activity rooms for gatherings and eventsSunroom for unwinding in natural lightOutdoor patio with grillsDog run for furry companionsA playground for visiting grandchildrenPrime Location in Maple GroveLocated at 9651 Garland Lane N, Garland Commons is surrounded by conveniences and attractions. Residents can enjoy walking to Walgreens, Walmart, Aldi, Culvers, and other restaurants and shops. With easy access to I-94, the entire Twin Cities metro area is within reach.Visit Garland Commons TodayManaged by Velair Property Management, Garland Commons is open seven days a week for tours. Call (763) 298-3113 to schedule your visit and see why this vibrant community is the perfect place to call home.If youre looking for a safe, modern, and affordable living option in Maple Grove, Garland Commons is ready to welcome you. Experience the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community today!
Local Services By This Author
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Independent Living 26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Your Personal Retreat for Socialization and RelaxationThe Terraces at Bonita Springs offers a stunning living environment, the finest resort-style amenities and services and the security of predictable pricing for health care as a LifeCare resident.Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom floor plan; options include breakfast nooks, dens and additional half- and full-baths. Each residence comes with the finest finishes and appliances, lacking only in your personal touches.Our hospitable associates take care of all the maintenance, cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy a vibrant and connected lifestyle.Resident Services LifeCare health services with priority accessChef-prepared mealsInterior and exterior maintenanceWeekly housekeeping and flat linen servicesConcierge servicesPersonal one-car garageComplimentary valet parkingWellness programs for mind, body and spiritVitality program with personalized wellness plansUtilities (except phone and internet)24-hour securityProperty taxes includedCultural, social, educational and recreational eventsTransportation servicesIn-home emergency alert systemsCommunity AmenitiesMultiple dining venuesState-of-the-art fitness center and wellness programsIndoor and outdoor pool and spa, group water fitness classesCertified fitness instructorsTherapeutic massagePerforming Arts CenterGated communityBeautiful landscaping with lighted walkwaysTennis and bocce courtsPutting greenOutdoor BBQ areaLibrary and resource centerBusiness center with computersCreative arts studio and crafts roomBilliards room/game roomBeauty salon/barbershopGuest suitesActivities CalendarEvery service, activity and amenity available to you is thoughtfully planned with your interests in mind.Exquisite DiningOur elegant restaurant and casual bistro provide just the dining experiences you are looking for.Area AttractionsRetirement life at The Terraces means youre just minutes from beaches, shopping, fine dining and entertainment choices.LifestyleLife at The Terraces is designed to be beautiful, maintenance-free and worry-free.
Renaissance at The Terraces
Memory Care 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Memory Care in Bonita Springs, FloridaIf you are searching for memory care near me and live in southwest Florida, youve found the perfect place for you and your loved one.Located in Bonita Springs and convenient to those in Estero and North Naples, memory care at Renaissance at The Terraces offers those living with Alzheimers disease or dementia a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming place to call home. With the exceptional memory care, elegant setting and thoughtful lifestyles offered, Renaissance delivers the quality memory care experience that families expect for their loved ones.BROWSE OUR FLOOR PLANSMemory Care that Embraces the Whole FamilyFor those living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia, (including Lewy body dementia) and for their families, the effects of memory loss can be devastating. We understand. Our exceptional care embraces everyone involved, from our residents to their families. Our trained memory care team works closely with residents every day. Our purpose is to engage each individual in a way that resonates with them personally; this approach respects their choices, promotes their remaining abilities and supports their independence in a safe environment. We also offer support and education for families, helping them to understand and cope with the challenges presented by Alzheimers and dementia. Renaissance, as well as all of The Terraces at Bonita Springs, welcomes family members to not only visit their loved ones but to also take advantage of every amenity offered within our senior living community. After all, this is where their loved one lives this is home. We welcome them to treat it as such. What does that mean to you? It means feeling at home at Renaissance. It means taking a stroll through the grounds. Soaking up the sun by the pool. This community is designed to allow everyone to live well. It means letting us provide care and support while you enjoy being family again.Personalized Alzheimers and Dementia CareWe believe theres no substitute for personalized attention. To us, memory care is only effective when it is incredibly personal, so we get personal. We take the time to get to know our residents. We learn their life stories and really get to know who they are. Through the smallest details residents interests, careers, family histories and favorite foods we can develop personalized dementia care plans and create positive emotional experiences that help stabilize residents moods without relying on pharmacology. Its an innovative approach to memory care in southwest Florida.State-of-the-Art Memory Care FacilityOur memory care facility in Renaissance is state-of-the-art, featuring a neighborhood concept that helps decrease residents anxiety, with common spaces to encourage socialization. No detail has been overlooked; no comfort has been spared. Our residents enjoy spacious private residences with nurses close by, allowing us to provide even better care. Rated 5 stars from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, families can be confident in the quality of our memory care services.Memory Care and Service Details:24-hour licensed nurses available24-hour Certified Nurses Aide assistanceRecreational therapistSecure environmentDedicated professionals specially trained to care for those with memory lossPersonalized care plan tailored to meet unique needs and preferencesSpacious, private studio residences with full private bathsAll utilities provided, including basic cableInclusive pricingMemory boxes to help residents locate their residence independentlySpacious activity and common areas designed to promote social interactionEnclosed courtyard for safe outdoor activities such as walking and family visitsInteractive and socially stimulating programming designed for those with memory loss
Renaissance at The Terraces
Assisted Living 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Inclusive Assisted Living: Hospitality With CompassionFor those who require a helping hand with daily activities, assisted living offers the ideal balance of personalized service and independence. If youre in Southwest Florida and searching for assisted living near me, look no further than Renaissance, our resort-style Bonita Springs assisted living community. Here we help older adults live independently with access to care whenever and however they need it. Our inclusive assisted living fees cover everything, so residents can budget without any surprises.Assisted living provides residents assistance with basic activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing and medication management. It also provides a sense of comfort and peace of mind to residents and their loved ones, knowing that with this care, residents are able to focus more on enjoying life.But Renaissance delivers more of what discerning seniors and their families expect from assisted living. Unlike other assisted living facilities, our community offers luxury amenities and services, including spacious, beautifully appointed residences and delicious dining where senior assisted living residents can order from chef-prepared menus. Our community features a large fitness center, creative arts studio and crafts room, a courtyard with landscaped grounds, plus robust programming and activities that keep residents engaged, connected and thriving. Above all else, senior care staff members are always available to provide exceptional service so that residents feel safe and fulfilled.With compassionate care at our core, we work directly with residents and families to go over living options and tailor a plan that works best for them. We take into account personal needs, schedules and individual preferences to ensure each resident enjoys an enriching life with maximum independence.If a resident experiences an illness, injury, or surgery and requires rehabilitation or skilled nursing care, those services are available right here and may be covered by Medicare Part B. Residents enjoy the convenience and confidence of receiving the care they need in the community they love. Best of all, following care, they are able to return to their assisted living residence.Assisted Living Services & Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableInclusive pricingAssistance with activities of daily livingSpacious one- and two-bedroom residences, complete with a kitchenette and full bathAll utilities and basic cable provided, except telephoneSocial and life-enrichment activitiesLarge creative arts studio and crafts roomOutdoor terraces for diningDedicated fitness centerOutdoor courtyard and beautifully landscaped groundsWell-appointed common areas, including a TV room, library, lounge areas and media roomScheduled complimentary transportation availableHigher levels of care are available at our Bonita Springs, FL, senior living community, under one roof. Assisted living residents who need skilled nursing, memory support, or rehabilitation can receive that care seamlessly without moving away from our retirement community.Browse Our Floor PlansArea AttractionsLifelong LearningVitality ProgramAssisted Living Care: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)When is the right time for assisted living? Thats a question we frequently hear. People may be confused about the differences between independent living and assisted living. They may also think their loved one may need a nursing home. The answer is fairly straightforward. If your loved one needs support with activities of daily living (ADLs), assisted living is the right choice. What are activities of daily living? They are regular daily activities that are related mostly to personal care. They include bathing or showering, dressing, safely taking medications, getting in and out of bed or a chair, walking, and similar activities.If your loved one needs help with any of these, assisted living is a wonderful option to consider. Not only will your loved one receive the personalized assistance thats so essential to maintaining a sense of independence, but at Renaissance, an entire lifestyle is available that can add so much to your loved ones life. New friends. A rich social life. Programs and activities that add joy and meaning to every day. Access to a wide variety of amenities, such as our fitness center and walking paths. And of course, our dining services team makes sure your loved one enjoys healthy, delicious meals.Renaissance Service and AmenitiesAll residents of Renaissance, including those in assisted living, enjoy all the services and amenities offered within this inviting community, including:Direct admittance with no large entrance feeThree chef-prepared meals daily, served in a private dining roomAccess to a full continuum of on-site health care servicesMedical director and registered dietitianMedication monitoring and administrationWellness programsRehabilitative therapy servicesState-of-the-art equipment and treatment programsMove-in coordination support24-hour security and emergency call systemGated communitySprinkler system and smoke detectorsFire-rated and sound-resistant constructionEmergency power generatorsResidence and grounds maintenanceBeauty salon, barbershop and spa servicesHousekeeping, daily bed-making, and personal laundry service availableIndividually controlled heating and air conditioningIf you have questions about the cost of assisted living, or about any of our health care services, please contact us today.