Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Help Keep Your Mind Sharp, Reports AGS Foundation For Health In Aging

Main Category: Seniors / Aging
Article Date: 23 Jan 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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As we grow older, we grow wiser in many ways, but age-related changes in the brain can make it harder to learn and remember certain things. Fortunately, growing research suggests that making simple lifestyle changes can help you stay mentally sharp, no matter your age.

To make this easier, the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Foundation for Health in Aging (FHA) has released a new, comprehensive, and easy-to-understand tip sheet on "cognitive vitality" for older adults. It can be found here.

The tip sheet, "Sharp at Any Age: AGS Foundation for Health in Aging Tips for Keeping Your Brain Young," explains what older people need to do to keep their cognitive edge. Among other things, older adults should see their health care professionals regularly; get sufficient sleep (it's a myth that older people need less sleep than younger adults); exercise; and eat a diet that's low in saturated fat, and includes plenty of fruits and vegetables and two servings of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids weekly.

About The FHA

In 1999, the American Geriatrics Society reached beyond its traditional role as a professional medical society and launched the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging (FHA). The FHA aims to build a bridge between geriatrics health care professionals and the public, and advocate on behalf of older adults and their special needs: wellness and preventive care, self-responsibility and independence, and connections to family and community. The FHA champions initiatives in public education, clinical research, and public policy that advance the principles and practice of geriatrics medicine; educate policy makers and the public on the health care needs and concerns of older adults; support aging research that reduces disability and frailty, and improves quality of life and health outcomes; encourage older adults to be effective advocates for their own health care; and help family members and caregivers take better care of their older loved ones and themselves.

About The AGS

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence, and quality of life of all older people. The Society supports this mission through activities in clinical practice, professional and public education, research, and public policy. With an active membership of over 6,500 health care professionals, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies, and practices in geriatric medicine.

American Geriatrics Society