Emotions and Mental Health

When Charity Kreher and her husband decided to move their family from Oklahoma to Puerto Rico, they were expecting a change, not just in scenery, but in their day-to-day lives. They traded a large suburban home for an apartment in San Juan, unsure of what would come. Six months in, the shift in lifestyle has … Read more

Brain games and puzzles have long been a go-to way for older adults to stay mentally active. Sudoku, chess, and crosswords all have their benefits. But there’s another option that offers more than just mental stimulation. It involves creativity, hands-on learning, and a surprising level of fun. It’s STEM robotics. While it may sound like … Read more

As a retired professor and author of more than 180 books, Anthony Fredericks, 78, says his brain is still firing on all cylinders. The key, he says, is one simple habit he practices every single day. It’s not a supplement, a crossword puzzle, board games, or a brain game. It’s curiosity. Curiosity, Fredericks believes, is … Read more

If you’re over 65 and thinking about getting a pet to ease stress or feel less alone, it’s worth considering all your options. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, energy level, and what kind of companionship you’re looking for. One animal, in particular, offers comfort, calm, and connection without requiring too much effort. Here, … Read more

Anxiety and depression affect millions of people, and sometimes the simplest habits can offer relief. One of them can involve a little buddy that brings a nice presence into your life. Recent research points to a powerful connection between pet companionship and lower stress levels, especially in women. A study from Harvard found that having … Read more

As people age, their closets often shift toward darker, muted tones. Shades like navy, brown, and beige are seen as safe or “age-appropriate”. But there’s one color that can brighten your appearance, lighten your mood, and help you look more refreshed. That color is white. It might not be the first option you reach for, … Read more

Staying socially connected as you age is a crucial determinant of your long-term health. While physical activity such as walking, dancing, or water aerobics supports mobility and mood, the NIA highlights another powerful guard against isolation: forging meaningful connections through community involvement. Here, we’ll explore how participating in faith-based and interfaith groups can enrich seniors’ … Read more

Most people think of retirement as a time to slow down, but for many, it can also be a chance to try something new. There’s one hobby in particular that helps older adults stay mentally sharp, feel purposeful, and connect with others in meaningful ways. And surprisingly, very few give it a real shot. We’re … Read more

Retirement can be freeing in a way, but for many, it brings an unexpected emotional weight. While it marks the end of work-related stress, it also signals a major shift in routine, identity, and connection. Some older adults feel relieved, while others face a sense of loss. Psychologists have found that depression is quite common … Read more

Anxiety, depression, and stress-related symptoms are becoming more common among kids and teenagers. While books, games, and therapy all have their place, a new study highlights another activity that can help them and may be overlooked by some parents. That habit is physical activity. Regular, structured exercise can reduce these symptoms in children when it … Read more

Mental exercises like crosswords and word searches are great for keeping the brain active. But if you’re over 60 and looking to improve coordination and hand steadiness, there’s another hobby worth trying, one that works both the mind and the body in a simple, enjoyable way. That hobby is darts. It’s easy to set up, … Read more

Loneliness during the retirement period is an issue that can affect your health. While staying home with a book or the TV might help you pass the time, it’s not the kind of connection older adults need. That’s why the National Institute on Aging (NIA) recommends something different to help prevent social isolation. One suggestion … Read more

Playing chess has long been praised for keeping the brain sharp. It’s strategic, social, and deeply engaging. But there’s another hobby that might be even more effective when it comes to maintaining and improving cognitive function later in life. And unlike chess, this one gets your whole body involved. This activity is called exergaming—short for … Read more

When people talk about brain games for seniors, they often bring up Sudoku, crosswords, or word searches. Those are great, but there’s another game worth adding to the mix—one that combines strategy, memory, and social interaction. We’re talking about the card game pinochle. It may not be as instantly recognizable as bingo or Scrabble, but … Read more

For seniors over 70, staying socially engaged can have a big impact on their mental health. Besides social dance classes or volunteering, an activity that’s gaining attention for boosting emotional health, especially in older adults, involves connecting with younger generations. Here, we’ll look at how intergenerational activities—programs that bring seniors and youth together—can help older … Read more

To improve balance and coordination after 65, there’s a surprisingly fun, social, and engaging hobby that goes beyond classic activities like tai chi. It’s billiards. Yes, this game can be an effective and enjoyable way for older adults to stay sharp and steady during their retirement years. Billiards is low-impact, easy on the joints, and … Read more

Staying mentally sharp after 70 takes more than just staying physically active. While movement such as dancing matters, the brain also needs regular challenges and active engagement. One simple way to complement your physical routine is board games. They combine social interaction, strategy, and mental stimulation without feeling like a chore. Simple, affordable, and effective, … Read more

Beyond complex word challenges and winding mazes, puzzles can be a great tool for nurturing your toddler’s spatial awareness and early math readiness. These hands-on activities provide a powerful cognitive foundation while remaining engaging for little learners. Here, we’ll examine the benefits of puzzles for your child’s cognitive development, such as enhancing visuospatial reasoning, pattern … Read more

It’s not unusual to notice shifts in personality as someone gets older. A person who used to be flexible and calm might become rigid or irritable. These changes can catch family members off guard and raise questions. Is it aging? Or is something else going on? Psychologists say that personality changes in people over 65 … Read more

Staying mentally active and socially connected gets harder as we age, but it matters more than ever. If traditional options like bingo or movie nights don’t appeal to you, there’s another way to stay sharp, build friendships, and feel more confident. We’re talking about debate clubs. These gatherings aren’t just for students or lawyers. Seniors … Read more

Sudoku and crosswords have long been go-to brain games for older adults. However, there’s another option that may be even better when it comes to supporting memory, focus, and flexible thinking—and it involves tiles, numbers, and a bit of strategy. Rummikub is the game many experts now recommend for seniors looking to stay sharp. It … Read more

While both Sudoku and crosswords are great for mental sharpness, there’s one game that combines strategy, memory, language, and social interaction better than the rest. Scrabble has become a favorite among older adults who want to keep their minds sharp and stay connected with others. In the following sections, we’ll explain why Scrabble stands out, … Read more

Looking to feel brighter and more energized every time you get dressed? The color that’s quietly stealing the spotlight for older adults isn’t white, beige, or navy. It’s turquoise—bold and surprisingly flattering on mature skin. This fresh shade brings light to your face and personality to your outfit, without shouting for attention. Here, we’ll look … Read more

As we age, finding the right hobby can do more than just pass the time—it can help you keep the brain active and improve your emotional health. And no, it’s not pickleball or baking. One of the most effective and rewarding hobbies for older adults doesn’t even require leaving your chair. Reading clubs, often called … Read more

If you’re over 65 and trying to keep your brain active, you’ve probably been told to do crossword puzzles or jigsaw puzzles. But there’s another game—one that’s often overlooked—that can be just as effective, if not more so, at keeping your memory and attention strong: Go Fish. This simple card game is more than a … Read more

Sudoku puzzles remain a popular method for seniors to exercise their minds. However, if you are seeking an activity that delivers a more vigorous cognitive workout paired with social connection, consider Mahjong. This captivating game combines strategy, memory enhancement, and dynamic interpersonal engagement. Here, we’ll explore why Mahjong can be a great alternative to solitary … Read more

We frequently hear recommendations that engaging in sports such as walking, swimming, and golf is essential for staying mentally agile with age. While these activities promote physical fitness, there’s a hobby that can bring creativity and enhanced cognitive clarity from the kitchen. Here, we’ll examine how learning to cook activates the mind, ignites a sense … Read more

Breathing exercises prove to be an effective tool when stress begins to build up. They’re simple, free, and can be practiced anywhere, with no special equipment or prior experience required. Even a few minutes of focused breathwork, whether through diaphragmatic breathing, box breathing, or techniques such as 4-7-8 and yoga-inspired pranayama, can steady your mind, … Read more

If you are over 65 and seek a social pursuit that sharpens your cognitive abilities, enhances respiratory function, and nurtures your emotional health, consider joining your local choir. Whether it’s a community ensemble, a senior choral group, or even a music therapy circle, singing with others strikes a perfect balance between mental stimulation, physical relaxation, … Read more