Brain Health: Keeping Your Mind Sharp
Getting older does not mean you have to stop learning, trying new things or challenging your brain. While some changes in memory and thinking are a normal part of aging, there are many things you can do to support brain health and maintain your mental sharpness.
Keep learning. Your brain benefits from being challenged. Try learning a new skill, taking a class, reading about a subject that interests you or picking up an old hobby. Learning a few words of a new language, playing an instrument, trying a new recipe or learning how to use a new technology can all provide mental stimulation.
Stay physically active. What is good for your heart is generally good for your brain, too. Regular physical activity increases blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. Walking, swimming, dancing, gardening and other activities can help you stay active. If you have been inactive, start slowly and choose activities that are appropriate for your abilities.
Stay socially connected. Spending time with friends, family and other people provides your brain with regular stimulation. Conversation requires you to listen, remember information and respond. Consider joining a club, volunteering, attending community events or making a regular date with a friend for coffee or a walk.
Get enough sleep. Sleep is important for memory and overall health. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, keeping your bedroom comfortable and limiting caffeine late in the day may help. If you regularly have trouble sleeping or feel unusually tired during the day, talk with your health care provider.
Eat for overall health. There is no single food that can guarantee a healthy brain, but a balanced diet can support overall health. Aim for plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, lean sources of protein and healthy fats. Staying hydrated is important, too.
Manage health conditions. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can affect blood vessels and may contribute to problems with brain health. Taking prescribed medications as directed and keeping regular medical appointments can help you manage these risks.
Give your brain a workout. Crosswords, puzzles, card games, board games and similar activities can be enjoyable ways to exercise your mind. But you don’t have to limit yourself to traditional “brain games.” Writing, cooking from a new recipe, doing a craft project or planning a trip can require memory, concentration and problem-solving.
It is also important to recognize when memory changes may need attention. Occasionally forgetting a name or misplacing your keys can happen at any age. However, increasing confusion, difficulty managing familiar tasks or memory problems that interfere with everyday life are worth discussing with a health care professional.
Keeping your mind sharp isn’t about preventing every change that comes with aging. It’s about giving your brain the best possible environment to stay active and engaged. Stay curious, keep moving, nurture your relationships and continue doing the things that make life interesting.
