Habit #1 Love to learn
Brain health advocates have long championed learning’s ability to help build and sustain neural connections. Research backs up this protective effect. Particularly in older people (75+), studies have suggested that increased cognitive activities during leisure time reduces the risk of developing a mild brain impairment.
What are you waiting for? Enroll in that Spanish class!
Habit #2 Choose complex work when you can
Challenging work – that is, either people- or data-based – may also lower your risk of cognitive degeneration. This finding was underscored by a large Swedish study of twins that examined 10,079 people.
Here’s one more reason to put your hand up for a difficult project at work, or to take up an evening course in a mentally stimulating topic – such as anatomy or International Development (something you find fascinating but a little daunting).
Habit #3 Make time to be social
Although scientists aren’t completely all over the reasons why, loneliness and social isolation later in life are associated with higher risk of cognitive decline – in fact, some studies suggest the risk is nearly double that posed for socially active individuals.
If you’re finding your social circle a bit thin, try connecting online to find people in your area who share similar interests. For instance, the Heart Foundation runs and helps you find walking groups in your area – visit heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/walking
Habit #4 Take in a pet
Woof! A review of nine studies that probed the effects of dog interaction upon brain health suggested that when adults spent time with these pets, participants became more sociable and less agitated – and it didn’t matter how much cognitive decline he or she already showed. What’s more, overall brain function improved, too.
If you’re tempted, contact RSPCA and see if there’s a pooch out there with your name on its tag. Or, if that’s too extreme, put your hand up to dog sit for a friend planning an extended holiday.
Habit #5 Don’t worry, be happy
To live a long life (and sustain a healthy brain), be a glass-half-full kind of person. Personality tests of Japanese centenarians found a plethora of optimistic attitudes; other tests revealed that neurotic personalities tend to go hand-in-hand with a higher risk of cognitive decline. Extraversion on the other hand, is associated with a lower risk of brain impairment.
Negative moods can be contagious, so where possible, surround yourself with positive, happy and energetic friends and family.
References available on request
