Globally, the prevalence of dementia among adults is about 55 million, and in the USA, the figure is more than 6 million people that have Alzheimer’s disease, followed by other forms of dementia. It’s mainly Americans aged 65 and older that are afflicted. Damage to brain cells is what brings about dementia, which impairs one’s thinking, the ability to remember, and compromises one’s decision-making skills that comes in the way of carrying out daily activities/performing simple housework, such as cleaning, gardening, cooking, and even, keeping oneself groomed via bathing, brushing, etc.

It is true that mainly older adults are susceptible to dementia, but don’t assume it to be a normal part of aging. Dementia is a progressive condition meaning the symptoms worsen with every passing day. Taking care of someone with dementia becomes very tough as the condition advances.  However, this article aims to give you some valuable tips on how you can stay on top of your brain health game with increasing age. Following these tips will significantly cut your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other-related dementias.

Here they are:

Continue learning- When you stop learning, you stop growing and living. No matter the stage of life you are in, find opportunities to learn new stuff, such as a new language or a musical instrument, or something similar, and reap their brain-boosting benefits. You’ll end up with sharp memory as you engage in these activities that keep the brain working.

Socialize- This is another effective measure to stay mentally sharp. To retain cognitive sharpness with increasing age, it is a good idea to spend time with your loved ones, of course, in keeping with the Covid-19 protocols. Staying social will keep your brain active and challenged.

Diet and Exercise- The importance of eating healthy and exercising regularly cannot be emphasized enough for your overall good health. Experts recommend the Mediterranean eating style to boost brain power. Not only the brain, but a Mediterranean diet can keep the blood pressure in check and reduce risk of heart disease.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes eating fruits, nuts, vegetables, and the healthy monounsaturated fats like olive oil, while ensuring limited amounts of lean protein intake, such as chicken and fish like mackerel, tuna and salmon that contain the healthy omega-3 fats.

Reading- Reading employs various parts of the brain to work in tandem, which is how this task boosts memory and leads to positive neurological changes that hold you in good stead even after you have stopped engaging in the activity.

Receive quality sleep- Receiving quality sleep at night encourages cognitive function and strengthens recall. So if you’re finding it difficult to remember things, you may not be receiving adequate sleep. You can get a consult with a sleep specialist to improve your sleep habits. Higher-quality sleep is a sure-shot way to boost brain power.

Some other tips to maintain brain health:

1.      Laugh more

2.      Stay calm

3.      Work out your brain by solving puzzles, doing crosswords, etc.

4.      Keep your weight in a healthy range

5.      Meditate (helps manage stress well)