Give your grey matter a workout with brain training

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to reorganise neural pathways based on new experiences. Much of the brain can bounce back from disaster and function again, but we need to train it to stay healthy.

Here are our top suggestions for training your brain:

Play video games You might not think playing computer and video games is your thing, but new research could change your mind - in more ways than one. Rapidly solving simple mathematical equations is the basis of training and developing new connections within our grey matter. Enter Dr Kawashima's Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain? by neuroscientist Ryuta Kawashima, who found that the way we think and the speed with which we act on those thoughts can train the brain. With this in mind, his game has been designed to help decrease your brain age as you progress through the training sections. Best of all, it's fun!

Never stop learning The brain continues to grow even in old age. Whether brain exercise comes from playing a computer game, learning a new skill or doing Sudoku puzzles, the workout increases the electrical connections between cells, and improves creativity, memory and the ability to communicate, Dr Lorna Layward, a researcher of the effects of ageing says.

Don't be a multi-tasker Can you answer the phone, cook dinner and help with homework? Women are particularly good at multi-tasking but studies have found it may be bad for our health, causing stress and insomnia, and even short-term memory loss. Instead, focus on one task at a time, and break up big projects into smaller tasks.

Shift focus If you're preoccupied by the bad news in the world, turn off the TV and focus on the good stuff. Neuroplasticity experts say that constant negative thoughts due to distressing news will dampen the way you think. Instead, think and feel positive.

Move your body There is strong evidence suggesting that 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day will keep the blood flowing smoothly and provide oxygen and nutrition to every organ, including the brain. Movement also releases the mood-stimulating hormone serotonin, which shuffles the memory cards in place.

Make a date Staying connected is vital as you age. It doesn't matter if you're a member of
a church or a bowling club, or if you play bridge - any social action is positive and will increase your brain connections. Reading a newspaper each day will help keep your mind sharp, as will learning new computer skills. Join a computer club to keep up with the pace of technology alongside your peers. SeniorNet is a network of local computer learning centres for over-55s - visit www.seniornet.co.nz to find a club near you.

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