Nintendo, maker of video game systems and video games, has a new game that they say will exercise your brain and not just your fingers. The game is called “Brain Age” and Nintendo is marketing it to adults as heavily as their usual game-playing demographic. Nintendo claims that people of all ages can train their brains and keep them younger.

The idea of the game is to lower your brain age by completing cognitive exercises. The game calculates your Brain Age when you begin through a Brain Age Check. You can then track your brain age as you progress through the game.

You need a Nintendo DS system to play the game but this system has some advantages that make Brain Age possible, such as being able to write your answer on the screen with a stylus. The game also features voice recognition so some of the exercises are done aloud.

Nintendo seems serious about its claims for the game’s ability to keep your mind sharp and lower your Brain Age. And, even if they are wrong, it’s still fun - at any age.

Brain Age

Love to read but the fine print of the average book is a headache in the making? Are you a music lover who plays an instrument but the size of the notes on regular sheet music cause your eyes to cross? Have you had to give up a favorite pastime such as doing crossword puzzles because you can’t find ones that you can read?

I find it annoying to have to put on magnifying glasses to read everyday things, as well as the added annoyance of losing my glasses which has become such a problem than I now own four pairs and one pair is kept in each spot where I might need them, purse, office, computer desk, etc.

Seniorstore dot com may have just what the eye doctor ordered. They have a large inventory of large print books, crossword and other word puzzles, cookbooks and even sheet music. In addition they have a wide variety of gift ideas for people over 50. Check it out!

We all remember Art Linkletter, beloved for his famous House Party and his Kids who said the Darndest Things. At 94, it’s Art who is saying the darndest things.

In his new book called How to Make the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life (co-written with Mark Hansen), he explores the “Art” (small pun) of aging. Far from the carefully worded questions to schoolchildren that he once delivered, this book is honest and forthright in dealing with the issues of older adults, including sex.

You can read an excerpt from his book at Grandtimes dot com.

Boosting health, energy and memory as we age are key elements to enjoying a happy and satisfying life. It isn’t surprising that what keeps the body healthy, also keeps the mind active and boosts memory retention.

Friends

Social interaction has been found to greatly increase mood and outlook. One great way to increase social contacts is through volunteerism. Check into programs that can utilize your talents and interests. How about programs at the local library reading aloud to children? Inquire at your local senior center about activities that match your interest and make new friends.

Exercise

Aerobic exercise, such as walking, increases circulation and therefore, the oxygen supply to the brain. In studies, exercise improved short-term memory and the ability to focus.

Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, B vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids is not only good for your heart but also for your brain.

In short, Friends, Exercise and Diet are the keys to keeping your body and brain FED. Oh yeah, in case you hadn’t guessed it, mnemonic games such as making up acronyms to stand for important information is another way to keep your mind and memory sharp.

Links for more information:

World Health

MSN

Senior Health