Use it or lose it, most definitely applies to our brains. How many of us actually remember all we were taught at school. I know some would say that much of what we learned was pointless. I guess I don't really need to know how many millions of miles away from the sun and the moon we are. As we get older it's not the actual knowing that counts, it's the mental exercise that keeps our brains ticking over.

One thing I do know is that most of the elderly people I come into contact with, who still have a spring in their step, have one or two things in common. They have kept their mind and bodies active. One without the other appears to not have the same effect. Both mind and body needs to be exercised in order to receive the full benefit.

Completing crossword puzzles is a popular way to keep the mind active in ones latter years. Crossword puzzles certainly keep our brains ticking over and the more it's used the better we become. The great thing with crosswords is that you can start work on easier puzzles and eventually progress to the more challenging.

Crossword puzzles are not just great mind activators for the elderly. Students can also benefit from themed crossword puzzles, as they are a great way to review a recently learned subject.

Word puzzles can and do sharpen the mind. As with anything, the more you do, the easier it gets. Keeping our minds and bodies active is a good way to ensure we are doing our best to prepare ourselves for a long and enjoyable retirement.

We are told that our brains have a tremendous capacity for learning and storing new information. Why not give it a regular work out with a good crossword puzzle and ensure that you are “Using It”.