Positive Relationships Keep Your Brain Healthy

You’ve probably heard of Meals on Wheels. Right? It’s the non-profit organization largely made up of volunteers who deliver meals to people who have a hard time getting out of the house.

It’s a great way to ensure a senior gets a healthy meal. But something just as important happens when a driver shows up to deliver a meal. It’s a chance to visit, talk, and interact with a friendly face. If you want to live a long and healthy life, keep your brain active, and be happier, developing and maintaining relationships may be just as important as your diet and exercise habits.

In one study, Alzheimer’s Disease researcher Dr. Bryan James looked at cognitive decline in aging seniors over a 12-year period. He found that people who were socially active and enjoyed healthy relationships with others were 70 percent less likely to experience cognitive decline, than those without strong social ties.

In a separate study, researchers found that seniors who engaged in sexual activity on a regular basis, scored better on brain function and memory tests than those who didn’t. But the findings point to strong social ties and healthy relationships as the primary factor for keeping your brain healthy as you age.

Find ways to be more social

If you want to keep your brain healthier and be happier as you age, find ways to be more social. It’s a great way to develop and maintain relationships linked to longevity. Some ideas include:

• Participate in community activities
• Take a class to learn a new skill or hobby
• Volunteer at a school, library or community event
• >Attend church services and functions
• Teach a class about something you know
• Visit with family members and friends often
• Plan and host a party

If you read that last point and rolled your eyes about planning and hosting a party...because it’s too much work...think again.

What if there was an easy way to prepare food for your guests that wouldn’t take a lot of time or make a huge mess in the kitchen? There is.
Just check out the MagicKitchen.com menu. There’s even meals made specifically for seniors. Pick your favorites, all made from fresh ingredients. And you’ll have everything you need to invite your friends over for a good time. Just what you need to feed your body and your brain.