Have you seen those who are considered in the very old category, the over ninety crowd, whooping it up while playing cards? Have you noticed how much fun they have when they are with their friends?
Now days, you can often find those active elders at various functions, traveling, driving around town (we have several 90+ drivers in our small town), in general, enjoying life to the fullest.
Author and Eldercare columnist, Carol Bradley Bursack, has written an interesting article titled Lucid Old Age: What Do Those Who Keep Sharp Do Right? discussing how researchers believe the “very old” are keeping their minds sharp through such activities as playing cards and socializing at the Senior Center.
Although genes play a part in lucidity and longevity, researchers are trying to decipher whether this group is “active because they are sharp or sharp because they are active.”
My ninety-one-year-old aunt lives with her daughter and son-in-law. He often quizzes her about family members names, the day of the week, and other pertinent information to help keep her aware of her surroundings. Although she has definitely lost ground, I see the positive effect he has when gently challenging her memory.
Not long ago, he had her spelling each family member’s name including my dad, her brother. Although it was somewhat difficult for her to remember how to spell each name, the two of them obviously enjoyed the “game” by the smiles and loving tone in their voices.
As caregivers, we can, and should, play an important part in helping our loved one stay lucid by providing stimulating challenges throughout the day. Whether we spend time playing cards, playing games, or discussing the latest news, we are helping them, and probably ourselves, keep mentally sharp.
Here is a link to Ms. Bursack’s interesting and informative article, Lucid Old Age: What Do Those Who Keep Sharp Do Right?
You can read more of her articles and an interesting bio about Carol Bradley Bursack on Alzheimer’s.com.
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