Improving Brain Health
Cognitive decline is something that happens to almost everyone as they age. It is a result of a combination of lifestyle habits, genetic factors, trauma, medication side effects, and illness such as Alzheimer’s disease. Studies predict that by 2050, the likelihood of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Vascular Dementia, will increase by 45%.
Cognitive decline is when an individual experiences difficulty with language, remembering, learning new things, concentrating, or making decisions that affect their everyday life. Common signs are memory loss, confusion, difficulty carrying out tasks, loss of short-term or long-term memory, and impaired judgement. Typically, cognitive function improves over the first 18 years of life, peaks during the next few years, and then begins to deteriorate.
Cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, however, research has shown that simple lifestyle changes might delay the start of cognitive decline or slow its progression. Here are a few things that can help with brain health:
Take Care of Your Physical Health
Get recommended health screenings
Manage chronic health problems
Reduce risk of brain injuries due to falls
Get enough sleep, generally 7-9 hours each night
Be Physically Active
Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day such as walking
Join an exercise group class
Meditate (free guided meditation)
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
Research has shown that a Mediterranean diet may lower the risk of cognitive impairment
Keep an Active Mind
Learn a new hobby such as crocheting, reading, or coloring
Complete word searches or sudoku
Engage with Others
Play Memory Circle - sit in a circle with other individuals and take turns sharing a story from your childhood. Once all participants have shared, go around the circle recalling a childhood memory that was shared by another group member
Call and/or visit loved ones via phone or virtual source such as FaceTime or Skype
Cognitive decline is inevitable, however, by taking proactive steps the brain can remain healthy and may reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.