Scientists continue to make breakthroughs in the research of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, but Alzheimer’s has no cure. One thing the scientific and medical community does know is that regular stimulation of your brain can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
“Lifelong learning endows you with abilities that can serve you well in later years,” says Dr. Ron Zec, a researcher in aging and neuropsychology. “Whatever is challenging, the data indicates these things will help you delay the onset of dementia.”
In addition to cognitive stimulation, Dr. Zec also says that studies show the following will delay dementia in the elderly:
- regular physical activity
- higher lung capacity
- a positive sense of self-efficacy
- a healthy diet
- good sleep habits
- stress control
- toxin avoidance
- social support
So, break out those crossword and Sudoku puzzles to keep those brain cells firing. Here’s one to get you started: