We're all faced with it.  Getting older.

I recently celebrated another birthday and for me my personal list of things to stay young, alert and healthy are probably far different from yours.  Not really into exercise other than walking.  Having a healthy diet is at the top of the list for both my wife and I.

But when it comes to the subject of memory stimulus, that's a different story.

Someone recently asked a neurologist to name the top five things we should be doing to keep our brains sharp as we get older. Here's his list:

  1. Keep Socializing. You're less likely to suffer memory loss as you get older if you have a social life. So pick hobbies that involve other people, not just stuff you do by yourself.
  2. Challenge Your Brain. Read, play games, and do crossword puzzles. And try something NEW every once in a while, like learning a new instrument or another language.
  3. Don't Stress Out Too Much. A ton of studies have found that too much stress can have long-term effects on your memory and your decision-making skills.
  4. Exercise. It improves blood flow to your brain, which helps you stay focused. And it also helps with memory.
  5. Stop Eating Empty Calories. Your brain works best when your diet is high in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, which you can get from whole grains.

So, don't fret getting older. Concentrate on aging healthier.


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