Dr Tommy Wood, a neurologist specializing in brain health and dementia prevention, discusses the steps we can take to keep our brain healthy as we age. He highlights the importance of challenging our brains, adopting a growth mindset, and engaging in activities like language learning and physical movement. He also emphasizes the significance of social interaction and recommends engaging in difficult tasks multiple times a week.
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Quick takeaways
Engaging in new activities and learning new skills can promote brain plasticity and offset cognitive decline as we age.
Continuing to challenge the brain and seek out intellectual stimulation after retirement can help maintain cognitive function and overall brain health.
Deep dives
Maintaining Brain Health at Any Age
Dr. Tommy Wood explains that cognitive decline in later life is not inevitable and highlights the potential for change in brain function. While studies show a linear decrease in cognitive function over time, it is possible to alter this trajectory significantly. The brain can generate new cells and create new connections, even in older adults. By challenging the brain and introducing new stimuli, such as learning new skills or engaging in novel activities, the brain can adapt and perform better. The decline in brain function that typically starts in the mid-20s or early 30s can be influenced by societal pressures and a lack of cognitive stimulus. Building brain health involves engaging in activities that promote brain function and repair processes, such as learning languages, physical movement, and coordination exercises. By combining multiple stimuli, like music, social interaction, and movement, individuals can maximize the benefits and protect their cognitive function.
Retirement and Cognitive Decline
Evidence suggests that earlier retirement and the absence of cognitive stimulation post-retirement contribute to a faster decline in cognitive function. Jobs that provide constant cognitive stimulation are associated with better brain health. To compensate for the lack of cognitive stimulus post-retirement, individuals can engage in activities that provide intellectual challenges and promote brain plasticity. Learning new skills, such as languages or martial arts, can positively impact cognitive function. Engaging in activities that involve coordination, social interaction, and a combination of multiple stimuli, like dancing, can be particularly beneficial. By continuously seeking challenges and trying new things, individuals can counteract cognitive decline and support their overall brain health.
Difficult Tasks and Brain Health
The function of the brain depends on the demands placed upon it. Engaging in activities that are difficult and challenging and then allowing for rest and recovery is key. It is important to choose activities that are not only challenging but also enjoyable to ensure long-term engagement. Activities might include learning a new language, playing musical instruments, knitting, or engaging in video games or brain training. The combination of consistent learning and improvement, along with personal enjoyment, can significantly impact long-term brain health and change the trajectory of cognitive decline.
In the UK, one in 14 people over 65 will develop dementia, with that figure rising to one in six once we’re over 80. But there are plenty of simple, enjoyable things that we can all start doing right now to improve our brain health and stave off age-related dementia.
Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests.
Today’s clip is from episode 316 of the podcast with Dr Tommy Wood. In this clip, Tommy explains why cognitive decline in later life is not inevitable and the steps we can take now to keep our brain healthy at any age.
DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.
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