Scientists have known for years that as we get older, the brain tends to function less efficiently, and electrical currents connecting different areas of the brain get weaker. Now studies have shown that this gradual deterioration can be reversed.
Mental decline as you age appears to be largely due to altered connections among brain cells. But research has found that keeping the brain active seems to increase its vitality and may build its reserves of brain cells and connections. Even new brain cells can be generated.
Yes, Homer Simpson, even you can generate new brain cells too.
Low levels of education have been found to be related to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s later in life. This may be due to a lower level of life-long mental stimulation. Put another way, higher levels of education appear to be somewhat protective against Alzheimer’s, possibly because brain cells and their connections are stronger. Well-educated individuals can still get Alzheimer’s, but symptoms may appear later because of this protective effect.
You don’t have to turn your life upside down to keep a healthy mental alertness.
Keep your brain active every day:
1. Stay curious and involved — commit to lifelong learning.
2. Read, write, work crossword or other puzzles.
3. Attend lectures and plays.
4. Enroll in courses at adult education centers, community college or other community group
5. Play games.
6. Garden.
7. Try memory exercises.
8. Do aerobic exercise - walking is wonderful.
9. Teach someone something.
10. Listen to classical music.
Resources
Alzheimer's Organization http://www.alz.org/maintainyourbrain/mactive.asp
AARP Online Games and Puzzleshttp://www.aarp.org/games/
Third Age Online Gameshttp://www.thirdage.com/living/games/sbt1/
The Memory Page – Tips and exercises to help you improve your memory at any age.
The New York Times Crossword Puzzlehttp://www.nytimes.com/pages/crosswords/
