Can’t remember where you put your phone…again! Turns out that your body is not the only thing that changes as you grow old, your brain does too. Your memory is no longer as good as it used to be. The brain cells also referred to as neurons, lose the connections between each other which play a significant role in thought. These connections are called synapses. Mental decline is among the most feared consequences of getting older. However, it is not non-reversible, and there are many ways you can improve your cognitive abilities thus helping your brain stay young and active. Below are some tips on how you can keep your mind sharp after the age of 30, 40 or 50 years.
1. Be physically active
Exercise does not only help keep your body keep fit. It keeps your body in top form too. Make time to work out either at the gym or home. Exercise increases the synapses between brain cells and also triggers the production of new nerve cells.
2. Feed your brain
Proper nutrition is as good for your brain as it is for your body. Eat healthy foods. Some of the foods that have been proven to improve the cognitive functioning of the brain as you age include; leafy greens, asparagus, avocados, Indian curry, and omelets.
3. Challenge your brain
Solve crossword puzzles. Learn a new language. Research indicates that people who continuously challenge their minds have considerably younger and more active brains. Such activities help in revitalizing your brain cells.
4. Avoid injuries to your head
Injuries even those which are minor and may not result in concussions may have adverse effects and may cause cognitive impairment. Protect your head. Avoid any traumas especially those that may cause loss of consciousness.
5. Take a genetic test
Some people are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s than others. If you recognize early signs of Alzheimer’s, get a DNA test done.
6. Build social networks
Research indicates that people who have strong social ties are at a lower risk of suffering from conditions such as dementia. Expand your social network by interacting with family and friends regularly.
7. Remain calm
As much as you need to be active, you need to stay calm too. You don’t need to learn that new language all the time. You can be loose and have fun and give your brain cells a break.
8. Sleep
Get a good night's sleep. Lack of sleep does no good to your blood cells. Whether it is a hard calculus calculation you are doing or are deciding on what house to buy, it is good just to give it a rest and sleep on it.
9. Surf the internet
Although it is not healthy to use the internet all the time, surfing the web has shown to improve the brains cognitive abilities. A study done on both the people who use computers regularly and those who don’t reveal s that those who use computers have more neural activity than those who don’t use them.
10. Take care of your emotions
Emotions, such as anxiety, depression, and exhaustion may lead to cognitive impairment. Take great care of your feelings. Sleep well and avoid negative emotions to improve your mental health.