Article: Sharon - The Social Cure: Plan How You Can Socialize With Family, Friends, and Neighbours

Sharon - SSTattler

A few weeks ago, I talked about how important social relationships are to health. The most recent one to admonish people to get back to socializing with their families, friends and neighbours is Dr. Paul Nussbaum, clinical neuropsychologist and adjunct professor of neurological surgery at the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Medicine.

"Face-to-face interaction and maintaining your family network are beneficial for the brain. So shut off the entertainment devices and spend time talking to each other"

“People who isolate themselves have a higher risk of developing dementia."  So as the New Year approaches think about how you can get out and socialize with family and friends!

Dr. Nussbaum offers the following tips:

Create stories: Tell family stories, join a community acting group.  Engaging in creativity is an important brain workout. In Edmonton, SAGE offers lots of creative activities including GeriActors as. 

Invent games: It turns out the traditional car game of counting license plates is good for the brain, because there is a link between mental stimulation and reduced risk of dementia. However, you don’t have to invent new games—what about chess, checkers, snakes and ladders, and even Parcheesi?  Get  your friends and family together for a games night. 

Get exercise: Physical activity lowers the likelihood of dementia. If you can’t go to a regular seniors centre—check out the Steadward Centre. 

Eat healthy food: A recent study found markers of Alzheimer's in mice who consumed a diet with high levels of fat similar to that of fast food. Cook more meals from scratch. Food rich in anti-oxidants, such as apples, grapes, cantaloupe and berries, for brain-healthy lunch and snacks. 

Your brain can re-organize, "The brain is highly dynamic, constantly reorganizing, and shaped by environmental input," Dr. Nussbaum says.

Engaging in social activity, rather than sitting in front of the TV is the way to increase your brainpower and your health after stroke.