Mirror drawing with both hands.
To perform this technique, take a pencil in each hand and simultaneously draw symmetrical shapes (circles, triangles, stars). You can start with simple objects or figures and gradually move on to more complex drawings. This exercise activates both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously, engaging logical functions as well as creative processes. Mirror drawing helps strengthen memory, improve focus and attention, and develop fine motor skills—an essential aspect of dementia prevention. In addition, this exercise helps to distract from everyday worries and improve mood. Regular practice of mirror painting can not only develop artistic skills but also reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Eye gymnastics.
The eyes are a crucial part of our body, and proper vision training can have a positive impact on overall brain health. When you exercise your eyes, you not only enhance their function but also stimulate neural connections, which supports cognitive abilities. One of the most effective exercises involves controlled eye movement. Choose a point in the distance and shift your gaze horizontally, vertically, or diagonally while maintaining focus. Another useful practice is regularly looking at objects far away to maintain visual adaptability. Regular exercise helps to improve concentration, reduce fatigue and improve the overall psycho-emotional state.
Guessing scents.
Guessing scents is a simple yet highly effective brain exercise that serves as excellent prevention against Alzheimer’s disease. To perform this exercise, gather a variety of scents, such as essential oils, spices, flowers, or everyday foods. Close your eyes, inhale the aroma, and try to identify what it is. This activity not only sharpens your sense of smell but also enhances memory and attention, as the brain actively retrieves and processes scent-related information. Regularly performing this engaging exercise stimulates different areas of the brain, helping to prevent dementia. So, try to set aside a little time once a week to practice this fun and beneficial activity.
Hand massage with a massage ball.
Rolling the ball between the fingers, squeezing, or massaging it in your hands activates sensory receptors and stimulates the connections between neurons. Research shows that regular hand and finger exercises help maintain memory, focus, and coordination. In addition, using a massage ball relieves tension and stress, promoting relaxation and overall improvement in emotional well-being. Since stress is a risk factoring for developing dementia, such simple exercises can become a valuable preventive tool. Dedicate a few minutes every day to this simple but extremely beneficial exercise — and your brain will thank you. Furthermore, it’s important to choose a high-quality ball, so pay attention to the material (it should be elastic and comfortable to hold), the size (the ball should fit comfortably in your palm, but not be too small or large), and the softness (start with a medium firmness ball to avoid overloading your hands).
All the above exercises are effective tools for preventing the development of dementia, but it is worth remembering that no prevention method guarantees complete protection against Alzheimer’s disease, especially with age. Therefore, it is important to regularly undergo specialized examinations to promptly diagnose any potential changes in the neurological health and, if necessary, begin taking certain medications such as Cognitol, Cerecetam, Aricept, or Admenta. Early treatment helps to slow down the progression of the disease and maintain good health for many years.