CHALLENGE YOUR GREY MATTER AT THE DUBBO LIBRARY

Challenge your grey matter at the weekly Brain Training sessions at Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo branch.

Participants can exercise their brain with word and picture puzzles as well as interactive games that aim to improve memory, concentration and problem-solving skills.

This week is Dementia Action Week (16 - 22 September) which encourages everyone to take the first step to learn more about dementia.

Dementia Australia recommends frequently engaging in mental exercise as this has been associated with reduced dementia risk. Just like your body, your mind gets stronger when it works out.

This could be reading, crosswords or puzzles, sewing, woodwork, cooking or maybe just learning something new.

The Brain Training sessions at the Dubbo Branch Library are held every Wednesday from 2pm - 3:30pm in a casual setting that allows participants to enjoy different activities and interact with others at the same time.

"Whilst seniors come along to the Brain Training sessions to exercise their brain, they are actually also enjoying the company of each other, allowing them to engage in conversation with others and build new friendships," Macquarie Regional Library Manager, Kathryn McAlister said.

"Participants find the sessions challenging and rewarding but best of all it's a fun, happy environment to socialise. Our participants highly recommend brain training, with Wordle being a popular puzzle for attendees as well as picture puzzles, spot the difference and colouring-in."

Mental exercise has many benefits, notably it helps to build new brain cells and strengthen connections between them. Whilst there is no guarantee that mental exercise will prevent dementia, it will keep your mind and brain in their best condition as you get older.

Many activities that exercise the brain also have social interaction benefits and staff at Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo Branch see this as being a major benefit of the Brain Training sessions.

"We encourage community members to come and try our Brain Training session. See what they can do to challenge their brain but also enjoy some social interaction with others."

Brain Training sessions are free to attend, bookings are required. To book, contact the Dubbo branch on 6801 4510. For more information visit www.mrl.nsw.gov.au.