This week, we will discuss the last letter in the mnemonic NEURO - Optimise.
It
has been said that doctors will never have as much knowledge at their
fingertips as the day they graduated. Indeed, they accumulated a vast
amount of knowledge over six years in Medical School. What happened to
all that knowledge, and don’t they continue to learn through reading and
experience? Yes, but much of that knowledge becomes inaccessible due
to a lack of use. That is why professional organisations insist on
continuing professional development. As we get older, it becomes more
difficult to recall information. Healthy connections between our
neurons are necessary for information transfer.
How
can we create sufficient healthy neuronal pathways to facilitate memory
and recall? Apart from the other four pillars - nutrition, exercise,
unwinding and rest - the fifth pillar incorporates optimisation of
neuronal function through building memory and streamlining
connectivity. This happens when we do work that challenges our thinking
and memory, learn a new language, develop new skills, start a new
hobby, play puzzles or sudoku, engage in various crafts, learn to play a
musical instrument or learn more demanding pieces, and volunteer our
services in areas that challenge our minds. It is not all work. We can
also play games that stretch our minds and memory, especially in the
company of our family or friends. Reading or writing, or signing up for
an adult education class, can also contribute to the growth of neuronal
connections.
Another
important way to optimise our brain function is through relationships
and connections with people. At the beginning of this series on
dementia, we discussed the role of isolation and loneliness. Living
with a sense of purpose is intimately connected to relationships. When
grandparents recognise that they are valued and can play an active role
in the smooth running of their families, it gives them a reason to get
up in the mornings. If they have supportive friends or are active in
community programmes, volunteering services, or caring for animals,
their risk of dementia is significantly decreased. A study mentioned in
the references below states that for every one-point higher feeling of
meaning, there was a 35% decreased risk of all-cause dementia.
Many
elderly people feel their lives have lost purpose. But the Psalmist
recognised that seniors have an important role still. “But I will hope
continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell
of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day. For I do not
know their limits. I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will
make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only. O God, You have
taught me from my youth; and to this day I declare Your wondrous works.
Now also when I am old and grey-headed, O God, do not forsake me, until
I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who
is to come.” “Also with the lute I will praise You…My lips shall
greatly rejoice when I sing to You…My tongue shall talk of Your
righteousness all the day long.” Ps 71:14-18; 22-24. NKJV.
As
the nominating committee of Helderberg College Church deliberates on
the new officers for the next two years, remember that volunteering and
being willing to participate in the work of the church are ways to keep
your mind active and prevent dementia! Of course, we want the young
people to be more involved in leadership roles, but even the seniors can
also contribute.
