Build Your Brain Reserve

You have something called “brain reserve,” which helps your brain adapt and respond to changes and resist damage. Your brain reserve begins to develop in childhood and gets stronger as you move through adulthood. People who continue to learn, embrace new activities, and develop new skills and interests are building and improving their brain reserve.

• You Can Strengthen Your Brain Power
• Keep Your Mind Active

Study

Get educated. It can substantially increase your ability to fight off mental decline. The same is true of working at a challenging job. So go back to school, take classes, get a degree. You’re never too old to learn and your brain will thank you in the long run.

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• Meet our Brain Health Champion – Doing it Right Spotlight: Mental

Islands of Memory – Vladimir Kush

Play

Do crossword puzzles, play chess, card games or online games. These activities can stimulate the brain. Playing electronic “brain games” may help improve your reaction time and problem-solving ability. It is important to find one that you will want to continue to play. Just like going to the gym, you can’t expect to stay in shape if you stop going.