Keeping our mind healthy is just as important as keeping our body healthy. As we age and with PD, this can be challenging. The great news is that our brain is plastic. This means that it is continuously changing and has the ability to get stronger and sharper! Let's discuss how you can keep your mind sharp!
Stay active
Staying physically active is crucial for our brain! It can reduce the risk of stroke, Alzheimer's, and can improve brain flow to the brain. Studies show that activities involving music, theater, dance, and creating writing can help improve one's memory. Regularly partaking in brain games like chess and sudoku can be helpful. The important part is variability. If you are really good at one thing, try something new so your brain has a challenge!
Manage your blood pressure
Controlling or preventing high blood pressure helps keep your brain healthy. High blood pressure in your 40s - 60s can increase the risk of cognitive decline later in life.
Stay social
Staying connected with family and friends through social activities can help lower the risk of cognitive decline. Studies show that high social engagement was associated with better cognitive health in older age!
Drink water
Water is needed for our memory and brain health. We should be drinking half of our body weight in ounces.
Eat healthy
This one may seem obvious, but it is still important to talk about. Eating a balanced diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats, fish, poultry, low-fat or nonfat dairy products is typically recommended. Avoiding sugar and processed foods is probably the most important part of eating for a healthy brain. Currently, there are no vitamin or supplement recommended for preventing cognitive decline.
Sleep
Get at least 8 hours of quality sleep a night. If you aren't sleeping well, talk with your doctor. Your sleep is crucial for your cognitive, emotional, and physical health
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Smoking is a known carcinogen and alcohol use has been tied to poor brain health. Limiting (or avoiding) the use of alcohol and quitting smoking is important for brain health.
Drugs that can impair cognition in older adults
Antihistamines
Muscle relaxants
UTI medications
Sleep aids
Antipsychotics
Regularly get your eyes and ears checked
Poor vision and hearing can contribute to cognitive decline, as your brain isn't engaged as much throughout the day if there is an impairment. Make sure your hearing and vision are up to snuff and that you are getting any eyewear or hearing aides checked.
Keeping your cognition in tip top shape is important for healthy aging. Your quality of life can be really impacted if your cognition is impaired. Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing cognitive decline.
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