7 Surprising Ways to Stay Sharp as You Age

​As the candles on the birthday cake multiply, you might start wondering if there's a way to outwit Father Time, at least when it comes to your mind. Most of us really want to stay as sharp as we can as we get older, so we can continue to enjoy life on the same level, do things for ourselves and hopefully stave off cognitive issues like dementia, but how exactly do you do that?

Below, you will find 7 surprising ways to keep your gray matter firing on all cylinders, no matter what your age, but especially as you get older:

1. Play Card Games

You know that rush of excitement when you hit 21 at the blackjack table whether in real life with friends or at an online casino? That’s not just the thrill of winning; it's your brain doing mental pushups! Playing card games like blackjack isn't just a way to flex your luck; it’s a legit strategy to sharpen your mind. You’re calculating odds, making quick decisions, and trying to read the poker faces around you. It’s like stealthy brain training, with the added bonus of potentially winning a buck or two (just remember, the house always has the edge).

2. Twist Your Tongue

Here's a twist: start your mornings or end your evenings with a round of tongue twisters. Why? They not only limber up your language skills but also give your brain a mini-workout. Trying to say “She sells sea-shells on the sea-shore” at speed could potentially be more challenging than any Sudoku.

3. Dance Like Everyone's Watching

You’ve heard “dance like nobody’s watching,” right? Well, for the sake of brain health, dance like everyone's watching. Learning choreographed dance steps can improve memory and give you a physical workout, which also boosts brain function. Plus, it's a heck of a lot more exhilarating than another round of "brain games" on your phone.

4. Nibbles Something New

Here’s something to chew on: eat something new! Trying unfamiliar foods can stimulate the brain. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about learning the origin, the best way to prepare it, and perhaps even the cultural significance. Who knew that chowing down on durian could make you sharper?

5. Smell Yourself Sharper

Sniff your way to a smarter you by learning to distinguish between different scents. It could be wine, coffee, essential oils, or anything with a distinctive smell. This isn't just for party tricks; it's a sensory workout that can improve your olfactory system and memory recall.

6. Flip the Script

If you’re right-handed, try doing your daily tasks with your left hand, and vice versa. This not only improves your dexterity but also creates new neural pathways in the brain. Brushing your teeth might become a comedy routine at first, but your brain will thank you for the challenge.

7. Get Lost (On Purpose)

Take a different route to your usual destinations or explore new places without GPS. Getting a little lost requires problem-solving skills and spatial awareness, and it forces you to pay closer attention to your surroundings. Just be sure to have a backup plan in case you end up more lost than intended!
Give your gray matter something like the above to do and sharpness surely will not desert you.