Older Adult Wellness — Learn something new

Want to live longer and stay mentally sharper? Of course, you do.

But the bigger question is how can you do it?

Experts say there are three important steps to take: try new things, invest in your health and stay engaged in life.

Challenging yourself to learn something new promotes the health of your brain. Specifically, new mental challenges that stretch your brain promote the growth and formation of new synapses, which are the road maps our brain uses to complete tasks and use information.

It was once thought that the brain had a finite capacity for learning and forming new synapse connections. Fortunately, neuroplasticity is a term that is gaining more and more attention when it comes to brain health.

Neuroplasticity is the concept of the brain’s ability to continually adapt to meet various demands. By challenging yourself to learn a new skill or solve a problem, you are literally giving your brain a workout, which is great for your overall health.

Not only is learning something new important for optimal brain health, but it also is vital in maintaining a positive sense of well-being. By opening your mind to new ideas or routines, you will find new hobbies to enjoy, new friends with common interests or a new cause to be passionate about.

With a strong sense of purposeful living comes a high level well-being.

Take action today and teach yourself something new or immerse yourself in a new community effort.

Learning something new doesn’t have to be complex. Don’t be intimidated! Join a club, pursue a new hobby or volunteer for an organization close to your heart.

Teaching yourself a new skill or participating in something new will build your brain and your spirit. Consider inviting a friend to learn something new, and together, you can start living longer, better on purpose.