If you believe that retirement is just sitting back and enjoying the ride, think again. Say hello to Ernesto Suárez, a 75-year-old grandfather from El Salvador who's hard at work taking tests. He is doing it not because he has to, but because he wants to! His granddaughter recently posted a TikTok video of him prepping for the DMV test (Department of Motor Vehicles), even though he likely won't need his driver's license. Ernesto describes staying sharp and warding off forgetfulness by keeping his brain active. His family gives him a hard time, but Ernesto knows that mental exercises are no laughing matter.
Grandpa's Brain-Boosting Routine![1 - 2025-06-09T124452.261]( "grandpa dementia tips")
Ernesto doesn't have dementia, and it doesn't run in his family either. But he says that the brain is the strongest muscle we possess. "I like to keep my brain working. It keeps my mind sharp," he said in an interview. Daily, he reads newspapers, biographies, and classic books such as One Hundred Years of Solitude and Don Quijote de La Mancha. He also likes doing crossword puzzles and, yes, practising tests just for the hell of it.
His granddaughter, Alexia Torres, posted a video of him studying for the DMV test at the dinner table. "I studied every day to push myself to pass it, even though I probably won't ever need it," Ernesto says with a chuckle. His wife also accompanies him in these routines, and together they remain active, assisting with the family business. For Ernesto, this exercise of the mind is not merely a pastime, as it's a means to remain in the present and close to his family as long as he can.
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What Is Dementia?
Dementia is an illness that impacts memory, thinking, and performing daily activities. It primarily happens in older adults and makes the lives of its owners and their families more challenging. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form of dementia. Although there's no cure yet, doctors state that mental exercises can postpone its symptoms.
Does Brain Exercise Help Postpone Dementia?![2 - 2025-06-09T124450.331]( "dementia")
Yes! Studies indicate that staying mentally active can help slow down memory loss. A study in the Neurology journal reported that individuals who actively participate in activities such as reading, writing, and playing games tend to experience slower mental and memory declines. The researchers found that people who often did activities had better memory as they got older. These people lost their memory much more slowly than those who did not keep their minds active. In fact, the study showed that even starting these activities later in life made a difference.
Simple Tips to Maintain a Healthy Brain
If you desire to maintain the sharpness of mind like Ernesto, the following are basic suggestions:
- Challenge yourself daily: Take quizzes, do puzzles, or learn something new.
- Read often: Books, newspapers, or anything that interests you.
- Stay socially active: Talk with family and friends regularly.
- Exercise your body: Physical activity helps your brain too.
- Eat healthy: A balanced diet supports brain health.
- Get enough sleep: Rest is important for memory and thinking.
Conclusion
Ernesto Suárez demonstrates to us that mentally active living can be enjoyable and satisfying at any age. His daily 'tests' and reading routine keep him sharp and engaged with his loved ones. Dementia is a serious condition, but easy routines like Ernesto's can help significantly. So why not follow his example? Continue to challenge your brain, remain curious, and savor the experience of lifelong learning.