Maintain Mental Fitness

One of the greatest fears most people have when growing older is the fear of developing Alzheimer's disease or some other type of dementia. This fear is so great that many develop great anxiety every time they experience a bout of forgetfulness. There have been many studies of those conditions that affect memory and most have shown that forgetfulness is not a guarantee that Alzheimer's is around the corner. They have also shown that following these tips can help to preserve mental fitness at normal levels.

These suggestions can help to reduce mental decline:

• Maintain your social contacts. Studies suggest that people with active lives are better protected against cognitive decline.
  
• Stay physically active. A recent study showed that older women who started a walking program showed lower levels of mental decline than sedentary women when tested six to eight years later.
  Exercise for Seniors
• Challenge your mind. Take classes, learn a new skill or complex mental activity like chess.
  Senior Living Activities
• Limit alcohol intake. Alcohol can kill brain cells and cause a form of dementia.
  Quit Drinking
• Stop smoking. Nicotine can have a negative effect on cognition in some older adults.
  Quit Smoking
• Play Games. Crossword puzzles and board games can give your brain a good workout while you have some fun.
  Board/Card Games
• Manage stress and stressful situations. Cortisol, the hormone produced by your body in times of high stress, can interfere with your ability to remember words, phone numbers and other details.
  Stress Management
• Get periodic health exams. Medical conditions such as coronary artery disease and diabetes may lead to dementia.
  Your Annual Checkup

updated 11/17/05