1. Ways to age “Sharp”. HEALTH BRAIN, HEALTHY AGING

2. OLDER VIRGINIANS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH  As we celebrate “Older Virginians’ Mental Health Awareness Month”  Collaborative care is invaluable in enabling older adults to continue to contribute in a manner consistent with the values of self-determination, recovery and empowerment and aging in their communities.

3. HOW DO WE HAVE A HEALTHY BRAIN?  Several things contribute to brain health:  Proper rest  Diet and nutrition  Keeping chronic medical conditions well controlled  Stress Reduction  Stimulation – keep challenging your brain

4.  Getting enough rest helps the brain recover and rejuvenate.  Most older adults have sleep interruptions, but they should be brief, then you return to sleep. PROPER REST

5.  Have a bedtime routine.  If you tend to worry, keep a notepad and pen by the bed, then write down what is bothering you  7-8 hours is a good nights sleep for most  Keep your Pre-bed time low stress and relaxing.  Get plenty of exercise in the day time.  Limit naps. Power nap or short naps not too late in the day DEVELOP GOOD SLEEP HABITS

6. DIET AND NUTRITION  See your doctor for annual check ups.  Limit caffeine later in the day.  Limit use of alcohol.  Eat Healthy Brain foods  Iron rich  Blueberries  Omega 3 fatty acids  Think 5 fruits and Veggies a day!

7.  Diabetes  Keep your blood sugars controlled  Hypertension  Keep your blood pressure controlled  Heart Disease  Control Cholesterol  Circulation, and blood flow to the brain is important! TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

8.  Avoid being a “Ball of Stress” by: Taking good care of you. Talking to someone trusted friend, counselor etc. AND….. REDUCE STRESS

9.  Getting daily exercise helps you rest better, reduces stress and improves your circulation! Three BIGGIES for the BRAIN! EXERCISE!

10.  Challenge Your Brain by keeping it active.  Volunteer, be involved,  Try new things.  Memory and brain training activities.  Use your imagination. KEEP YOUR BRAIN WORKING!

11.  Neurobics are exercises that develop and enhance the five senses.  Try to button your shirt with your eyes closed….  Use your “other” hand to write, or eat….  Play “pictionary” or “charades” Ways to exercise your brain for free! NEUROBICS

13. HOW MANY PEOPLE DO YOU SEE?

14. Use your memoryUse your imagination USE YOUR BRAIN IN DIFFERENT WAYS

15.  Socialize  Volunteer  Stay Active in your community  Follow current events MORE NEW THINGS

16. Thanks and ENJOY KEEP YOUR BRAIN HEALTHY AND HAPPY!