by Sara Moniuszko, USA TODAY
Want to protect your brain health as you age? Experts say there are things
you can do that make a difference.
According to the Alzheimer's Association's annual report released earlier this month, many health factors can influence brain function later in life. For example, daily behaviors that benefit physical health − like regular movement, good sleep and a nutritious diet − also play a central role in delaying cognitive decline.
While the organization notes it's "never too early or too late to start" incorporating these habits, it's particularly relevant during Midlife, when the long-term implications of a "cognitive reserve" are more apparent.
"Cognitive reserve works like a mental savings account: The more one adds to the account throughout life, including in their late 30s through their early 60s, the more they can withdraw later if the brain is affected by cognitive-related diseases," the report adds.
To help maintain a healthy brain, incorporate some or all of these habits into your life, the organization suggests:
- Challenge your brain. Keep mentally active through new or challenging activities, the organization suggests. Examples include learning a new skill or language, reading difficult material or learning to play a challenging strategy game.
