Tips for Staying Mentally Sharp as You Age
Promising research indicates that taking the following steps may help keep your mind sharp as you age:
- Control cholesterol problems and high blood pressure. Cholesterol problems and high blood pressure can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, which are thought to contribute to the development of certain types of dementia.
- Don’t smoke or drink excessively. Because these are both seen as putting you at increased risk of dementia, kick the habit if you smoke and, if you drink, do so only in moderation.
- Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity is thought to help maintain blood flow to the brain and reduce your risk of conditions such as high blood pressure that are associated with the development of dementia.
- Eat a healthy diet. People who consume plenty of vegetables and fatty fish and keep away from saturated fats are thought to have a lower risk of cognitive decline.
- Stimulate your brain. Keep your mind active by increasing your level of social interaction, learning new skills, playing challenging games, and doing other activities that require your brain cells to work. People who are more socially and intellectually engaged have a lower risk of developing dementia.
Get more information in the Everyday Health Senior Health Center.
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