Aging Brains Need Play Too; Because Wisdom Deserves a Good Laugh (and a Puzzle or Two)
- Kim-The Seasoned Lady
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Ladies, let’s have a heart-to-heart. You’ve been through decades of living, loving, leading, learning—and probably holding down the emotional fort for everyone else along the way. You’ve solved more problems before breakfast than some folks will in a lifetime. But amidst the schedules, caregiving, Zoom calls with grandkids, and that growing stack of books on the nightstand, there’s one thing that often gets left behind: Play.
Yes, play. That thing kids do with wild abandon and grownups seem to outgrow. But here’s the thing—your brain? She loves to play. In fact, she needs it. Especially as we age.
The Neuroscience of Play (Don’t Worry, We’ll Keep It Cute)
When we engage in play—whether it’s a game of cards, a silly word game, dancing in the kitchen, or learning something new and fun—our brains light up. Play stimulates the prefrontal cortex, strengthens neural connections, and boosts dopamine (hello, feel-good chemical!). It's not just fun, it’s fuel.
In other words: Sudoku isn’t just passing time. It’s a brain spa.
Why Mature Minds Still Need to Mingle with Joy
As we age, we naturally face cognitive shifts—slower recall, occasional “what did I walk into this room for?” moments. That’s totally normal. But playful activities can help keep our minds agile and engaged.
And no, this doesn’t mean you need to download every brain-training app out there. True play isn’t always structured or digital—it’s whatever lights you up and gets you into that magical flow state.
Reconnecting with art or music
Gardening with a touch of whimsy (gnome optional)
Trying a new recipe just for the fun of it
Writing stories, poems, or that amazing novel you’ve always dreamed of
Play refreshes the soul. And when the soul is light, the mind follows.
The Confidence to Be Silly (Yes, Even Now)
We seasoned women sometimes forget that it’s okay to be silly. Society has long told us to be “dignified,” “poised,” “appropriate.” But dignity and silliness aren’t enemies. You can be full of wisdom and full of wonder.
Remember when you laughed so hard your stomach hurt and your face ached? Or made up a song just to tease your best friend? That version of you still lives inside. She’s waiting to be invited out again... Let her.
A Little Play Prescription
Here’s your very official, completely non-medical prescription for brain vitality:
Daily dose of delight: Do something that makes you smile just because.
Mental gymnastics: Challenge your brain with puzzles, strategy games, or learning something new.
Social playdates: Laughter with friends is still the best medicine—plus, it sharpens memory and improves mood.
Permission to be weird: Talk to your plants. Wear sequins to the grocery store. Sing in the shower. No judgment here.
Final Word: You’ve Earned This Joy
Play isn’t a luxury. It’s a form of self-care. It’s a vote for staying engaged, curious, and joyful well into the decades ahead.
So go ahead—color outside the lines, try that salsa dancing class, start a water balloon fight with your grandkids. Your aging brain is still young at heart. And she needs to embrace the time to play. And don't forget to click the pic above for a free downloadble list of Playful Activities to get your fun times rolling!
Comments