More and more people are living into their 90’s and 100’s as medical advances have increased. Unfortunately, those in their later years are at the greatest risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. It becomes increasingly important to maximize our chances of maintaining a healthy brain later in life. How do we slow mental decline as we age? Or is it too late?

One study assessed strategies for preventing cognitive decline in at-risk people over the age of 65. The FINGER study, as it is commonly known, looked at 2,654 individuals over age 65 and found that lifestyle changes — healthy nutrition, physical activity, mental activity, and social connections — decreased dementia risk by over 20%. Findings from this large study suggest that interventions could improve or maintain cognitive functioning in at-risk elderly people from the general population.

This study proved definitively that it is never too late to start building your cognitive resilience. So, what can we do now to maximize our chances of maintaining a healthy brain later in life?