Keeping Your Brain Healthy
Kaiser Permanente Medicare Sales
Sep 27, 2021
Colorado - Northern Colorado
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First, its important to take care of your physical health. Avoid tobacco or too much alcohol. For people over 65, that means no more than one drink per day. Some medications, including over the counter, can harm the brain, so review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist at least once a year. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, work with your health care team to keep these conditions under control. Enjoying a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is also helpful."
Second, get plenty of physical activity this is one of the best things you can do for your brain health. With more physical activity, youll feel better, sleep better, have less stress, and have more energy. Choose an activity that you enjoy and invite a friend or family member to join you. If you are just starting out, go slow and gradually increase, with a goal to get to at least 30 minutes of moderate activity (like a brisk walk), at least five days a week.
Third, learning new things helps form new connections in your brain. Dusting off an old musical instrument, learning a new language, or solving puzzles are examples of fun activities to try.
Finally, its essential to stay socially connected. Spend time nurturing friendships and family relationships. The same things that make life enjoyable are also the things that help to keep your brain healthy.
Editors Note: Article submitted by Tracy Lippard, MD. Dr. Lippard is a Geriatric Medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente and may be reached at 303-338-4545, or by email at tracy.ellen.lippard@kp.org.
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