How to Build a Bolder Brain With Age

In advance of National Older Americans Month this May, the Institute of Medicine issued a report titled "Cognitive Aging: Progress in Understanding and Opportunities for Action." The report details changes in cognition -- essentially, brain functions such as memory, attention, decision-making and problem-solving -- as we age that affect our lives. However -- and here is the good news -- each of us has the ability to strengthen our cognitive abilities throughout our lives, and to prevent, slow or even reverse cognitive decline, given the right interventions and adoption of healthy habits. The report details three scientifically-supported actions we should take to protect our cognitive health as we age: -- Make time for physical fitness: Regular aerobic exercise will not only enhance physical health but also brain health, boosting blood flow to the memory center for the brain. We found that the brain training strategies not only improved cognitive performance, but also induced beneficial physiological strengthening of brain systems as well as real life changes.