Exercise doesn’t stop at hitting the gym. Your most useful tool, your brain, needs to be challenged just like your muscles do to stay strong. Especially as we age, it’s important to keep the mind sharp and active, Studies have shown that an active brain can ward against Alzheimer’s and dementia. Here are some fun ways to keep your noggin in shape.

Many teens are loathe to hear that playing video games kills brain cells and is bad for our health. But what if that isn’t exactly true? Recent studies show some video games challenge the brain and promote healthy aging. Playing an active video game, like Nintendo Wii, not only offers physical benefits, but it can increase attention span, sharpen reflexes and improve your ability to quickly process information.

Board games, puzzles and card games have similar benefits for the brain. The National Institute on Aging says that certain games stimulate brain cells, keeping neural pathways in shape. Find a game requiring plenty of concentration, reasoning and memorization such as Yahtzee, Scrabble, Pinochle or Sudoku. Once you’ve mastered one, learn a new one to keep your brain on the move.

Reading isn’t just a peaceful way to spend an afternoon — studies show it can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. In fact, people of all ages find that reading the newspaper daily at a set time, over coffee or breakfast, for example, will keep you informed and educated about the world and improve your brain health. Another great way to keep your nose in a book is to join a book club. The scheduled reading will keep you on track, and you’ll enjoy the added benefit of socializing with fellow readers.

Learn!

It’s never too late to learn something new. Push your boundaries and try something different. Whether it’s learning to Skype to stay connected with far-away family or learning a new recipe from a friend, challenging yourself yields many benefits. Studies show that learning as we age helps reduce cognitive decline associated with aging and promotes a healthy self-image. Many colleges encourage older adults to sit in on classes and “audit” them, giving you the benefits of learning without the added stress of exams.

Mary Beth Hassel is executive director at Legends Park Assisted Living in Coeur d’Alene, which offers compassionate, award-wining assisted living care and health services. She can be reached at (208) 666-9900.