Have you ever pondered the question, “Use it or lose it”? Of course you have, but perhaps not when it comes to your brain. Did you know that the human brain is actually able to generate new brain cells? This means you can teach an old dog new tricks as a result of brain plasticity. Brain plasticity allows for new and continued learning throughout one’s lifetime. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Think how powerful that really is, especially as our population continues to age. We have more seniors and baby boomers than ever, and many more of us quickly approaching!

So, what do baby boomers and seniors do to address their health issues and concerns? What can be done to decrease the risk for developing dementia or Alzheimer’s? What does healthy aging mean? What anti-aging activities can one participate in to promote healthy aging? First, it is important to realize that there is more to healthy aging and brain health than you may know. At BrainMasters, we have identified five important factors to improve and maintain brain health. Of course our number one recommendation is mental fitness and stimulation. Keep your brain working, learning, and thinking so you may build a cognitive reserve and form those new brain pathways! Nutrition is also crucial in promoting brain health. Research has revealed that certain foods such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, blueberries, cranberries, dark green vegetables, and of course water promote and help maintain brain health. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and decrease your intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and of course trans fats. Physical activity is a must to maintain a healthy brain. Whether it’s a daily walk, a yoga class, or a bike ride you’ve got to get that blood pumping! Socializing is another important factor to promote brain health. We need to engage in meaningful communication with others. People who are isolated and lonely have a higher risk for developing dementia and other health complications. Our last recommendation to improve and maintain brain health is one’s emotional health. Let’s face it-we are all slammed and in the hurry up mode. We need to spend some time each day relaxing and letting go of stress!

The key to improving and maintaining brain health and fitness is to incorporate all of these factors into one’s life. Now of course we don’t expect everyone to change their lifestyles overnight, but if one wants to master  healthy aging then there is no time like the present. By investing in your overall health now, you can reap the benefits and rewards later.

Enroll in a brain fitness course with BrainMasters and let us help you build your cognitive reserve. Currently, we have classes forming all around the metro Atlanta area. If those are not convenient, contact us, and we will create a class for your group. Remember, we bring our brain fitness classes to your location at your convenience! You can achieve a healthy lifestyle-Use it or lose it!