Just as research
has demonstrated how important
physical exercise is to aging
well, experts now say there are
things we can do to reduce our
risk of mental decline, or even
reverse it. It's called the
mental workout, and as baby
boomers search for more ways to
enjoy their longevity, interest
in it is beginning to explode.
As we age, most of us can live
with a little bit of physical
decline but we want to maintain
our cognitive abilities. So what
can we do about it?'"
Fortunately, brain plasticity
studies have shown that the
brain can “rewire” itself into
old age, and even add new cells
in response to stimulation.
Researchers say some people may
have a better shot of
maintaining their brain health
by adopting a few preventive
strategies, such as using
computer programs, learning a
new language, playing chess,
doing crossword puzzles, playing
scrabble or leaning a new skill
or craft.
Learning a new musical
instrument, for example, has
been found to have a protective
effect against cognitive
decline, even in those younger
than 65, according to the 2001
report "Achieving and
Maintaining Cognitive Vitality
With Aging," sponsored by the
Institute for the Study of Aging
and the International Longevity
Center-USA, among others.
