Fret not. If you still believe that all the nerve cells you're ever going to have come with birth, and once they deteriorate, they're gone, that is so 60's. As reported in The New York Times, Molly V. Wagster, chief of the Neurophyschology of Aging branch of the National Institute on Aging said these "assumptions have been challenged and put by the wayside."
Adult neurogenesis is the new rave in the scientific world. Experts have established that the brain continues developing new neurons, even during the later stages of a mammal's (specifically human's) lifetime. Another concept, Neuroplasticity, is also a recent breakthrough in brain science - your brain constantly adapts throughout your lifetime.
A study involving sedentary adults aged 60 to 75, showed that those assigned to a program of aerobic exercises, walking, and thrice a week meetings have shown improvements in cognitive functions compared to the control group who have undergone anaerobic stretching and toning.
Arthur F. Kramer at the University of Illinois said, "Six months of exercise will buy you a 15 to 20 percent improvement in memory, decision-making ability and attention."
The same New York Times report identifies the following as common recommendations from brain scientists to keep your brain stimulated:
1. Regular physical activity - rid of that remote control and get off the couch. Exercise, even just in the form of walking, improves brain functions by increasing blood flow to the brain and stimulates neurogenesis.
2. Avoid too much stress - chronic stress affects the brain's functions involving emotions, memory, and decision-making.
3. Mind stimulating endeavors - learning a new language, learning to play a musical instrument, continuing education, interesting job (or community volunteer work), travel, and staying socially connected, are some of the best ways to fight off stress.
4. Good diet - check out brain foods like fish (fish, being food for the brain, is no longer an old wives tale) and nuts that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fruits and vegetables.
5. Avoid pesticides and other chemicals containing neurotoxins. Drinking excessively also "pickles" the brain.
6. Remain flexible and be willing to try new things. Expect that things will shift over time and won't be the same as when you were young. As K. Warner Schaie said, "Those who manage to roll with the punches, and enjoy change rather than fighting it, tend to do well."
