Clever tricks to get your brain SHARP

Worried about your grey matter after weeks in lockdown and little socialising? Follow this expert advice to keep sharp

- TANYA PEAREY

Lockdowns and social distancing have changed all our lives, but health experts are concerned about the impact it’s had on our mental wellbeing.

Staying socially engaged is believed to help support brain health, with loneliness increasing our risk of suffering from dementia by as much as 40%, according to a large study last year.

‘Loneliness affects physical and mental health, causing vulnerability, illness and even death,’ warns Dame Esther Rantzen, who set up The Silver Line charity, which aims to help tackle the problem.

During restrictions on get-togethers, it’s crucial to keep in touch with family and friends, whether through FaceTime, text or phone. Or contact The Silver Line (0800 470 8090, thesilverline.org. uk) or Age UK (0800 6781602, ageuk.org.uk) for support.

Avoid harmful coping strategies, such as alcohol and cigarettes, as both do considerable harm to your brain.

Doing puzzles or reading can help, but experts agree that novelty is crucial. It seems it’s the challenge of doing something new that triggers your brain to release noradrenaline to help brain plasticity and form new brain connections. So try cooking a new recipe or learning a musical instrument or language online.

Are you getting enough?