AARP, the American Association of Retired Persons
Retirement can be one of the most relaxing periods of our lives. After the rat race has ended for us, we have more time to take care of ourselves. We can finally actually take advantage of the information we’ve heard all of our lives about leisure time being a part of being healthy. A lifetime of living has taught us to honor the things that really matter, like personal relationships, community activities, keeping a balance between fun and work, and taking good care of ourselves mentally and physically. Bonding with other people while playing games together, is a great way to achieve that mental exercise while doing something that feels good to us. Being around others with similar interests and circumstance is good for people of any age. There are entire groups that are dedicated to benefiting seniors. AARP, the American Association of Retired Persons is one of them. They provide opportunities to get together in person, or online through games. If you are having a day where you just don’t feel up to going out, and you desire to play games with others, check AARP’s website!
AARP games can help us to challenge our minds, while entertaining ourselves simultaneously. Studies have shown that challenging our minds in new areas actually builds new neural pathways. The nerve branch endings called dendrites grow outwards like roots from a tree, reaching out to their nerve neighbors and creating new bridges called synapses. There are a variety of games available that will help you grow neural pathways in different parts of your brain.
AARP free cell is a game that requires pattern detection skills as well as strategy skills. AARP solitaire can help develop a better memory, while AARP mahjong is a game that utilizes those strategy skills and requires you to remember and use your math knowledge. Researchers have used games like these in the healing treatment of people with dementia and cognitive or memory problems. AARP games are aimed at helping seniors maintain their mental acuity, yet they can benefit people of any age. Take advantage of them to for a fun way to improve your mental health!
