■ Do you love doing crossword puzzles or playing sudoku because you think it keeps your mind sharp? Well, think again. “Most of those things... »
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Aging
Silent Strokes
■ When the elderly decline mentally—they complain of slowing down or lose interest in their bridge club, for example—family, friends and even their doctors may blame it on the natural effects of aging. Indeed, many of the most common ailments of the elderly are written off as signs of getting old, including urinary incontinence, poor balance, depression, apathy and confusion.... »
Call in the (Cognitive) Reserves!
■ While driving home in a rainstorm, you learn that the bridge up ahead is washed out. What do you do? Stop where you are? Call for help? Turn back and give up? Not if you really want to get where you’re going. If it’s important enough, you find another path. __ How many paths does your brain have? Our thoughts... »
Five Healthy Habits for an Aging Brain
1. Exercise Regularly: Brisk cardiovascular exercise brings rich, oxygenated blood to the brain. You should get at least 30 minutes of heart-pumping exercise three times a week. Also, do strength training at least twice a week, because muscle development also produces more energy for the brain. 2. Reduce Stress: Stress is a major cause of illness, thanks to the effects of the hormone... »
Prescription for a Healthy Brain
■ Oh, the seductive lure of mental autopilot! Whether we realize it or not, much—perhaps even most—of our mental life occurs on autopilot, and we rely increasingly on autopilot as we age. Our mental autopilot is the product of our experience and it enables us to perform complex mental feats effortlessly and efficiently. __ Whether you are a doctor treating a... »