How to Keep Your Memory Young and Fit

According to the Radiological Society of North America, walking may slow cognitive decline in healthy adults as well as in adults with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Plus a recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that adults who walked for 40 minutes three times a week for one year showed brain growth in the hippocampus, an area of the brain associated with spatial memory.

Dealing with new situations can encourage the brain to process things better, so find ways to keep your brain stimulated. One easy way to do this is by adding something new to your routine. Or consider trying out a new activity that is known to boost brainpower. For example, a recent study in Neurology found that exercising your “word skills” may help protect against memory loss…so break out the crossword puzzles or Scrabble board!

Chronic stress floods the brain with cortisol, which leads to impaired memory. Harvard University researchers have found that a technique called mindfulness-based stress reduction can ease the effects of stress on the brain. This form of meditation, which involves focusing one’s attention on sensations, feelings and state of mind, can reduce harmful stress hormones.

Research suggests that older people who eat the most fruits and leafy-green vegetables may experience a slower rate of cognitive decline and be at lower risk for dementia.

Social interaction helps ward off depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. Create opportunities to get together with loved ones and friends, especially if you live alone. Also, consider joining a senior club at a local community center to meet new people.

You are more likely to forget things if your home is cluttered with notes. Try jotting down tasks, appointments and other events in a special notebook, calendar or electronic device.