Is Facebook The Best Way To Exercise Your Brain?

Facebook? Lumosity? Brain HQ?

University of Arizona: Facebook Article

There are plenty of choices when it comes to giving your brain a workout. My choice will always be Facebook especially for adults age 65+! Yes, I believe that Facebook meets and exceeds the requirements for giving your brain robust workout.

Ask neuroscientists and experts in memory training they often list three requirements to provide real cognitive benefits.

1. Novel
2. Variety
3. Complex

Novel

Login to Facebook and you often surround yourself with changes in features. Most recently Facebook is focusing on uploading native videos, before that it was changes in messaging. If novel is what you are looking for Facebook will continue to meet that requirement.

Variety

Everyday pages and new groups are added, videos go viral and information is shared. Users have the ability to find friends, information, and resources all within a few clicks.

Complex

If you're age 65 and over your use of technology may be limited. Using Facebook requires using fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and ultimately focus. While digital natives may find Facebook intuitive for many older users the layout and using tools requires concentration.

Lastly, Facebook is a connector! Connecting grandparents family members, individuals to their interests, and all the while decreasing social isolation. I believe the real power behind Facebook is allowing its user to reconnect and nurture friendships.

Judi Bonilla is a San Diego gerontologist focusing on researching, developing, and teaching healthy aging programs. She’s the founder of We Get Around! focused on senior transportation, Brain Fit Now! a community-based brain health program. Encorepreneur 101 boosting entrepreneurs age 50 plus. Connect with Judi on Facebook to stay find out the latest news in healthy aging.