Challenge
your grey matter at the weekly Brain Training sessions at Macquarie Regional
Library Dubbo branch.
Participants
can exercise their brain with word and picture puzzles as well as interactive
games that aim to improve memory, concentration and problem-solving skills.
This
week is Dementia Action Week (16 – 22 September) which encourages everyone to
take the first step to learn more about dementia.
Dementia
Australia recommends frequently engaging in mental exercise as this has been
associated with reduced dementia risk. Just like your body, your mind gets
stronger when it works out.
This
could be reading, crosswords or puzzles, sewing, woodwork, cooking or maybe just
learning something new.
The
Brain Training sessions at the Dubbo Branch Library are held every Wednesday
from 2pm – 3:30pm in a casual setting that allows participants to enjoy
different activities and interact with others at the same time.
“Whilst
seniors come along to the Brain Training sessions to exercise their brain, they
are actually also enjoying the company of each other, allowing them to engage
in conversation with others and build new friendships,” Macquarie Regional
Library Manager, Kathryn McAlister said.
“Participants
find the sessions challenging and rewarding but best of all it’s a fun, happy
environment to socialise. Our participants highly recommend brain training,
with Wordle being a popular puzzle for attendees as well as picture puzzles,
spot the difference and colouring-in.”
Mental
exercise has many benefits, notably it helps to build new brain cells and
strengthen connections between them. Whilst there is no guarantee that mental
exercise will prevent dementia, it will keep your mind and brain in their best
condition as you get older.
Many
activities that exercise the brain also have social interaction benefits and
staff at Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo Branch see this as being a major
benefit of the Brain Training sessions.
“We
encourage community members to come and try our Brain Training session. See
what they can do to challenge their brain but also enjoy some social
interaction with others.”
Brain
Training sessions are free to attend, bookings are required. To book, contact the
Dubbo branch on 6801 4510. For more information visit www.mrl.nsw.gov.au.