Like our bodies, our brains change with age, making it harder to recall details or learn new skills as time passes.
While this might feel inevitable, experts suggest that certain daily habits might speed up this process. Fortunately, correcting these habits can help maintain brain health and keep your mind sharp for years to come, BuzzFeed reports.
One key factor is social interaction. Due to remote work, parenting demands, or retirement, many of us become less socially active over time. Dr. Zaldy Tan, director of Cedars-Sinai’s Memory and Healthy Aging Program, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a robust social network. Socializing fosters new neural connections, enhances mood, and reduces the risk of conditions like depression, which is linked to dementia, per BuzzFeed.
Virtual connections can also be valuable, particularly for those who are physically isolated, notes Dr. Glen Finney of Geisinger Health. Another common habit is relying on familiar activities to keep the brain engaged. While preserving existing skills is great, learning new ones is even better for brain health. Dr. Finney advises challenging your brain by stepping outside your comfort zone, such as picking up a musical instrument or studying a foreign language. These novel pursuits strengthen neural pathways and support long-term cognitive vitality.
Chronic stress, often dismissed as a normal part of life, is another major culprit in premature brain aging. While acute stress has short-lived effects, ongoing stress can be harmful if left unchecked. Over time, it contributes to inflammation, memory issues, and even physical changes in the brain. Addressing stress through mindfulness practices, exercise, or professional support is vital for maintaining a healthy mind.
Sleep deprivation also damages brain health, though it’s often overlooked. Poor sleep interferes with memory consolidation and can lead to cognitive decline. Experts recommend prioritizing quality rest by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine, and limiting exposure to screens before bed.
Sedentary lifestyles, another widespread issue, can harm the body and brain. Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, supports neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells), and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Incorporating even moderate exercise, such as walking or yoga, into your daily routine can have a lasting positive impact.
Lastly, poor dietary choices can contribute to brain aging, reported BuzzFeed. Diets high in processed foods and low in essential nutrients deprive the brain of what it needs to function optimally. Incorporating various nutrient-dense foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish, can boost cognitive resilience and stave off decline.