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How to protect long-term cognitive health
Cognitive health is not something to take for granted . Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age , when the ability to clearly think , learn and remember is compromised , those changes can affect an individual ’ s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern .
Brain health should be a priority for everyone . The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors , including :
• cognitive health , which is how well you think , learn and remember
• motor function , or how you make and control movements
• tactile function , which is how you feel sensations
• emotional function , or how emotions are interpreted and responded to . Individuals can safeguard brain health — particularly cognitive health — by taking these steps .
Be more health-conscious Working with doctors , individuals can put their health first . This includes getting routine screenings , managing chronic health problems , limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products , and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night .
Manage high blood pressure All chronic conditions cause long-term repercussions , but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life . Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia .
Challenge your brain Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts , engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles , seeing new places , and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form .
Manage stress Stress can take its toll on the body , and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well . Make every stride to reduce stress , whether that involves taking vacations , meditating , laughing with friends and family , or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress .
Get enough vitamin D Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits , including its potential to promote a healthy
brain . Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D . If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low , supplementation can help .
Pay attention to hearing loss Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline , says Healthline . Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss . Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline .
Cognitive health should be a priority . Adults can employ various strategies to reduce their risk of cognitive decline as they age . n
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