tuna, herring, sardines and lake trout twice a week could boost your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, long heralded by scientists as a true brain food. Dr. O’Neil offers these additional tips to help you boost your brain health: Keep Moving People who exercise on a regular basis—as little as walking for 20 minutes three times per week—have been shown to have better memory and to be less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who don’t. ManageStress Learn to use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and imagery to keep you in a relaxed state of mind. Also, get medical help if you experience symptoms of depression, such as a lack of interest in usual activities, trouble sleeping or changes in appetite. Get Involved Dr. O’Neil says people over 60 who volunteer their time and tal- V7 la Fs Thinking About Brain Health (NAPS)—Keeping brain health on your mind could help you improve your memory andcognitive ability well into your golden years. While your brain is only 3 to 4 percent of your body weight, it consumes 25 percent of the nutrients you take in. Geriatrician Kevin O’Neil, M.D., says eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables— such as antioxidant-rich blueberries, carrots, beets and spinach— could help keep your mind sharp. He adds that eating cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, albacore Following a few tips could help keep your mind sharper longer. ents have been shown to be mentally sharper, have healthier hearts and live longer than those who do not volunteer. It’s also important to stay socially engaged. He believes that loneliness and isolation bring about a state of chronic stress that is detrimental to health. Think AboutIt Incorporate mentally challenging activities into your day to “wake up” areas of your brain that have been quiet. Try to learn one new thing, travel to a new place or participate in a new activity each day. Dr. O’Neil advises the Brookdale Senior Living’s Optimum Life program. Its “Cross Train Your Brain” initiative helps residents balance their lives through a variety of social, intellectual and spiritual programs, in an effort to promote wellness and brain health. Learn More For more information, visit www.brookdaleliving.com.
