In order to stave off dementia, Alzheimer's, and other age-related mental declines, seniors need to actively stimulate and challenge their brain. Now, this isn't the first time ElderGadget has reported on ways to work out out the aging brain and it most likely won't be the last. But stumbling across an article on LiveStrong.com, we were exposed to new methods to help maintain healthy cognitive abilities. You can't get too comfortable with any one standard brain stimulant. Let's say you become a Scrabble master, playing for hours on end every night, that's great until Scrabble ceases to be a challenge. Working out the brain requires a constant slew of new challenges. It's like entering a weight training program at the gym; to receive maximum benefits, you have to switch up the routine. So without further ado, here are a few novel stimulants for seniors who want to sharpen that rusty brain. Change Up the Hands When Carrying Out a Task - If you traditionally use your right-hand to carry out tasks like writing, drawing, or teeth brushing, go ahead and use your left hand for a change. Or vice-versa. Of course this shift might feel awkward and unnatural but that is the ultimate point; the fact that you are using different parts of the brain to perform these otherwise routine task provides mental stimulation. Take on New Subjects - While it is possible you have been out of school for decades, that doesn't mean you are too old to learn new information. It is relatively common to try to conquer a new language, especially before taking a vacation that requires foreign language competency. But in reality, learning any new sort of subject, like painting or knitting, will do the trick. Put Yourself in New Social Situations - This might include joining a new group, like a book club or a Mahjongg club. Meeting new people, hearing different types of opinions, engaging in some sort of discussion forces your brain to confront and adapt to the unknown. Mental Exercises for Seniors - (LiveStrong.com)