For An Aging Brain, Looking For Ways to Keep Memory Sharp

It seems these days that we are constantly bombarded with remedies, devices and techniques that claim to enhance and preserve our aging minds. But in a new article in the New York Times, the writer cautions against buying into any of it before doing adequate research. She says to look for well-designed, placebo-controlled studies that attest to their ability to promote a youthful memory and other cognitive functions.

Here are some of her findings:

Crossword puzzles may not help
Although there is some evidence that doing crosswords may help to delay memory decline, Molly Wagster, a neuroscientist at the National Institute on Aging, said they are best done for personal pleasure, not brain health. “People who have done puzzles all their lives have no particular cognitive advantage over anyone else,” she said.

Be wary of claims
Beware of phony or poorly tested products that claim to prevent, slow or reverse the effects of cognitive aging. Consumers should ask: Was the product shown to improve performance on real-world tasks? Are the claims supported by high-quality research that has been independently verified? And, most important, how do the supposed benefits compare with those from actions like physical activity and social and intellectual engagement?

Memory-enhancing strategies can be quite simple
In addition to engaging in daily physical exercise, consuming a heart-healthy diet and trying to get seven hours of sleep a night; the writer:

• Addresses people by name every time she seems them;
• Dials phone numbers from memory rather than speed dial;
• Takes practical measures to avoid memory lapses such as keeping a running shopping list, using post-it notes, recording all appointments with audible alerts on her smartphone and computer.

ForMen.com takeaway: It’s important to keep our aging minds as strong and functional as our bodies. But there isn’t a panacea to stave off cognitive loss. Our best bet is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and employ a variety of ways to keep our minds sharp.

Relevant source:

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/05/11/for-agings-effects-more-solutions-than-proof-of-success/

Curated from The New York Times