Aging is a part of life. It happens to everybody and will come with changes to many parts of your body. As time goes on your brain will experience these changes which are completely natural and to be expected. This can show up as loss of memory or even Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. However, there are actions you can take that can help to mitigate these negative effects of the natural changes to your brain. Here are some things you can do to keep your brain healthy:

 

Regular exercise

 

Continuing to exercise regularly, even when you start getting up there in age, is one of the most important things you can do to keep your brain healthy. Studies have revealed those who remain physically active have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s or declining mental functioning.

 

Many believe that the positive effects of exercise on brain health stem from the increase in blood flow to the brain. Exercise can also reverse the reduction of brain connections which can occur naturally, therefore reversing some of the negative effects of aging on the brain.

 

Adequate sleep

 

Making sure you have healthy sleep habits is another essential action you can take to ensure your brain retains optimal functioning. It is essential that you sleep seven to eight hours uninterrupted every night. Uninterrupted sleep, as opposed to a small one- or two-hour increments, allows your brain to effectively consolidate and store memories.

 

There is some evidence suggesting that sleep can help the brain clear abnormal proteins which also helps increase the overall health of the brain.

 

Maintain a proper diet

 

What you eat has a considerable effect on the health of your brain. Medical professionals suggest a more plant-based diet to maintain brain health. Fish, whole grains, and healthy fats, such as olive oil are believed to help keep your brain functioning well. These components are common in a Mediterranean diet, compared to an American diet which tends to have more red meat and salt.

 

Keep mentally active

 

Just like a muscle, if you do not use your brain then your brain will become weaker. Therefore, make sure to keep your brain active which can take some concerted effort if you are currently retired. Reading, putting together a puzzle, crossword puzzles, or learning a new language are just some of the activities you can do to keep exercising your brain. Also, try to avoid watching too much television because it is a passive activity that provides little brain stimulation.

 

Have a social life

 

Depression and stress are some common causes of memory loss, therefore it is important to do what you can to minimize these mental states. Having social interactions with other people can significantly reduce depression and stress which results in avoiding problems with memory loss. Also, some scientific studies have found a connection between solitary confinement and the atrophy of the brain. Therefore, maintain a social life as best as you can, even during your retirement years.

The information contained in this blog does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Rademacher Financial, Inc and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.

 

 

 

The information contained in this blog does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.

Rademacher Financial, Inc.  is a registered investment adviser that only conducts business in jurisdictions where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Registration is not an endorsement of the firm by securities regulators and does not mean the adviser has achieved a specific level of skill or ability. The firm is not engaged in the practice of law or accounting. Rademacher Financial, Inc.  reserves the right to edit blog entries and delete comments that contain offensive or inappropriate language. Comments that potentially violate securities laws and regulations will also be deleted. The information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of any topics discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors on the date of the post and are subject to change. A professional adviser should be consulted before making any investment decisions. Content should not be viewed as personalized investment advice, as an offer to buy or sell any of the securities discussed, or as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

 

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