Mental Exercise

Staying Active

Certain types of mental exercise are important to protect the brain.While more research needs to be done to determine which types work best, staying socially active, taking adult education classes, finding a new hobby, or learning something new (like how to play an instrument) may be better than repetitive or frustrating brain games (e.g., Sudoku). One of the best ways to protect the brain is through music. In fact, recent studies showed that lifelong music training can delay the onset of memory loss. Click to Learn More About the Therapy for Memory: Music Activity & Education Program - developed by team of clinicians and professional musicians as an at home or on-the-go program to stimulate the mind and exercise memory. Great family activity.

Suggested Tools

Here are some tools that visitors have suggested for physical & mental exercise. Or for more information a for a list of great holiday gift ideas Visit: www.TheADplan.com/alzheimersgifts for several great gift ideas, including books, activities & non-drug therapies (most under $20).

There are quick links to a variety of tools to help fight AD, as well as meaningful activities for patients with AD, dementia and memory loss that the whole family can enjoy.

2013 Updates:

DVD:
Suggestion from: Mary N, Nashville, TN - "This Sitting Seniors Fitness program on DVD is great for activity for Alzheimer's and many other conditions like Arthritis, Diabetes, and Osteoporosis. We've been using this program at our facility for years." 
Seniors Exercise DVD: Senior / Elderly Sitting Exercises DVD, Easy Sitting PILATES Strength, Rehab & Physical Therapy. Seniors Elderly Exercises DVD.

Devices for all Ages:
Suggestion from: Anonymous - "We have been totally amazed at how much my uncle has enjoyed and really fallen in love with his new Apple iPad 2 (Newest version) . After three years suffering with speech problems and memory loss after a major stroke, he is able to communicate better by using a new application called Simple Speaking. I highly recommend this!"

Suggestion from: Ruth, Peoria, IL - "My husband has very early stage AD and has really enjoyed the Kindle Fire we received as a gift over Christmas. I think its great for reading and playing on the web, keeps him busy and I enjoy it as well" To order, click Kindle Fire, Full Color 7" Multi-touch Display, Wi-Fi


Books:

Get Fit in Bed: Tone Your Body & Calm Your Mind from the Comfort of Your Bed

Alzheimer's Association Presents The Big Brain Puzzle Book


Other Scientifically Studied Therapies for Memory

Light Therapy:

A new study by Figuiero and colleagues to be published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease showed that tailored light exposure is a viable theraputic option for reducing sleep disturbances in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. While we do not yet know the best amount of light exposure to help, therapy could range from going outdoors for 10-15 each day to sitting in front of a light box (fitted with blue LEDs) for a prescribed amount of time. Consider a Philips goLITE Light Therapy Device (for the home) or a Philips GoLITE Portable (for home/travel).


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