June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and the article below is one of several this month to educate the public about these important topics.
Alzheimer’s disease is a serious problem that affects many people, but did you know there are things you can do to protect your brain? Yes, it’s true.
Increase your cognitive reserve. Cognitive reserve is like your brain’s hidden superpower. It depends on the strength and flexibility of your brain, and is like a muscle that gets stronger with use. Doing things that challenge your brain, like learning something new, solving a puzzle, or simply having an interesting conversation, increases your cognitive reserve.
Think of it this way: Imagine two people of the same age who have Alzheimer’s disease. One has a high cognitive reserve because he or she has spent their life learning new things and staying mentally active. The other has a lower cognitive reserve because he or she is not as mentally active.
Even though both people have Alzheimer’s, the person with higher cognitive reserve may experience fewer symptoms and be better able to function in everyday life because their brain has more “backup” to deal with the damage caused by the disease.
So how do you increase your cognitive reserve? The answer is simple: keep your brain busy. Challenge yourself and increase your cognitive reserve in the following ways:
1) Complete new activities, learn new skills, and stay mentally focused.
2) Lifelong learning, continuing education programs, reading, intellectually stimulating hobbies (e.g., completing crafts, completing puzzles), etc.
3) Religious practices, such as praying, meditating, and attending religious services, have positive effects on brain health.
4) Socializing and conversation
5) Physical exercise.
The more you use your brain, the stronger it becomes and the more prepared it is to face any challenge. So exercise your brain – it’s the best way to increase your cognitive reserve and keep your mind sharp for years to come.
Robiann Broomfield is currently completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology. She has also completed a clinical residency in Rehabilitation Psychology and Neuropsychology at Baylor College of Medicine/TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital. In September, she will begin a fellowship in Neuropsychology at Harvard Medical School.
