Getting old does not equal getting senile! For those who are ready for a challenge, we have a few! Becoming a senior can just mean your age is going up: it need not affect your cognition, your job, your memory or your physical self. Just keep active, keep happy and keep healthy and your brain will keep supporting you.

Up Your Nutritious Food Intake
Our first suggestion isn’t anything that you’ll actually be “thinking” about – more tasting! Incorporating more antioxidants to your diet can keep your brain able to fight those “bad” chemicals. According to Google, antioxidants are: “chemicals that block the activity of other chemicals known as free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive and have the potential to cause damage to cells, including damage that may lead to cancer.” Basically, any fruit or vegetable that stains clothes is an antioxidant. And coffee, as well.

Play more games
This includes things like board games, video games, solo games (crosswords, Sudoku, solitaire …) and sites on the Internet like Luminosity. The research may still be out Luminosity-type brain games, but if you’re having fun, that’s what really counts. And don’t forget about the old standby: puzzles. Did you know there are 3D puzzle available now? Be sure to check out your local hobby shop.

Get out there!
Exercise can be extremely helpful to keep both body and brain fit. And if you add in an exercise partner or walking buddy – even better! Can’t find anyone to workout with for your schedule? Try a personal trainer, available through most gyms. If they’re properly certified, they should be able to craft a safe workout (with a check with your doctor) for any activity level.

What are your favorite ways to keep your brain elastic, witty and clever? We’d love to hear more ideas in the comments!