Keep your brain sharp as you age

Cognitive decline is on the minds of many adults as they get older. Memory loss and trouble processing things can sometimes be a side effect of aging, as Everyday Health says the brain changes in size and structure as a person gets older. These changes can affect how well the brain works over time. Furthermore, illnesses affecting the brain, such as Alzheimer’s disease, may start showing their symptoms in people when they’ve reached their mid-60s, says the National Institute on Aging.

Cognitive decline and dementia are not a certainty of aging. But older adults interested in strengthening their brains may want to consider these strategies.

Address high blood pressure

High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels is associated with better cognitive function, according to data published in 2021 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Use all your senses

Harvard Health says the more senses used in learning something, the more of the brain that is involved in retaining the memory. Studies have shown that images paired with pleasant aromas leads to better recall later on.

1. How many points did basketball star Epiphanny Prince score in Murry Bergtraum High School’s 137-32 win over Brandeis High School in 2006?

2. What racehorse won the 1981 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes but finished third in the Belmont Stakes?

3. A 1958 plane crash at Germany’s Munich-Riem Airport killed 23 people, including players, staff and supporters of what English football team?

4. The NHL’s Adams Division (1974-93) was named in honor of Charles Francis Adams, founder of what NHL franchise?

5. What WNBA franchise, one of the league’s original eight teams in 1997, ceased operations in November 2009?

6. Name the American brothers who won gold and bronze medals in figure skating at the 1956 Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Olympics.

7. First presented in 2002, the Ted Hendricks Award honors the year’s top college football player in what position?

Exercise regularly

Staying physically active helps maintain blood flow to the brain, which also helps reduce the risk for hypertension.

Eat brain-healthy foods

According to Cone Health Medical Group, studies show eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like tuna, salmon and mackerel, decreases risk for cognitive decline. People should avoid saturated fats, trans fats and hydrogenated oils.

Read and write frequently

According to a study in the journal Neurology, regular reading and writing in one’s older years reduced the rate of memory decline by 32 percent. Joining a book club or simply reading more on one’s own can improve cognition. Similarly, writing improves memory and communication abilities and can help strengthen the brain as well.

Drink healthy beverages

Tea and coffee can improve alertness and focus, as they’re rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. A Place for Mom says caffeine in these beverages can help solidify new memories. Avoid drinking sugary beverages and limit consumption of alcohol, as neither boasts brain-boosting properties.

Keeping the brain sharp is a multilayered process that involves healthy foods and beverages, exercise and brain-stimulating activities.

2. Pleasant Colony.

3. Manchester United.

4. The Boston Bruins.

5. The Sacramento Monarchs.

6. Hayes Alan Jenkins (gold) and David Jenkins (bronze).

7. Defensive end.