The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is encouraging people of all ages to make healthy aging:

“Healthy aging is a resolution everyone should make and keep, because the benefits last far beyond the new year,” said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., AFA’s president & CEO. “Lifestyle choices can influence a person’s chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia-related illness, as well as other health conditions. Incorporating these small steps into your life will go a long way to promoting good brain health and healthy aging.”

AFA encourages people to take the following ten steps:

• Eat Well — Adopt a low-fat diet high on fruits and veggies, like strawberries, blueberries and broccoli. Take daily vitamins. Limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt and sugar. Generally, foods that are “heart heathy” are also “brain healthy.” Make sure to consult with your doctor about what is an appropriate diet based on your medical needs.

• Stay Active — Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and can also help improve mood and overall well-being. Brisk walking benefits brain health, while aerobics can boost your heart rate, and weight training builds strength and flexibility. Try out different activities until you find one that works for you.

• Learn New Things — Challenge your brain by starting a new hobby like playing tennis, learning to speak a foreign language, trying a cooking class, or something you haven’t done before. Even something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand stimulates the brain by forcing it to think outside of its normal routine.

• Get Enough Sleep — Getting a consistent, quality sleep every night is key; at least seven to nine hours is ideal. Having a good sleep environment is also helpful. Insomnia or sleep apnea can have serious physical effects and negatively affect memory and thinking. If you are having difficulty with your sleep, be sure to speak with your doctor about it.

• Mind Your Meds — Medication can affect everyone differently, especially as you age. Keep your doctor or local pharmacist updated on any changes with medications and have them review your drug list as medications can interact with each other.

• Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol — Smoking can increase the risk of serious illnesses, while too much alcohol can affect memory, impair judgment and present safety issues.

• Stay Connected — Social interaction and maintaining an active social life are very important for brain health, cognitive stimulation and mood. Invite friends and family over for a meal, board games, or just to hang out. Engaging in your community and participating in group activities is also beneficial.

• Know Your Blood Pressure — Blood pressure can impact your cognitive functioning. Visit your physician regularly to check your blood pressure and make sure it is in normal range.

• See Your Doctor — Maintain checkups. Health screenings are key to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, all of which can impact brain health. Speak with your physician about any concerns or questions you have about your health.

• Get a Memory Screening — Our brains need regular checkups, just as other parts of our bodies do. Memory screenings are quick, easy, non-invasive exams for our brains. Talk to your doctor about getting a screening as part of your annual wellness exam or call AFA at 866-232-8484 (AFA offers screenings for free, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites).

Additional information about healthy aging, brain health and wellness and memory screenings can be found on AFA’s website, www.alzfdn.org or by calling AFA’s Helpline at 866-232-8484. The helpline is open seven days a week.