Brain Health

Prioritize your Brain and Body

Both brain health and physical health are critical, especially as we age. According to a recent CDC study, people with one or more chronic health conditions are more likely to report worsening or more frequent memory problems, also known as subjective cognitive decline (SCD). Our brains age just like the rest of our bodies, but there are things we can do to keep both of them healthy!

A little progress each day adds up to BIG results! Start with these tips today!

  • Stay active with physical activity that increases heart rate and blood flow for at least 30 minutes daily.  
  • Quit Smoking  Giving up tobacco products improves your health and lowers your risk of developing heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and other smoking-related illnesses. Need Help Call Quit Now Virginia 1-800-QUIT-NOW | 1-800-784-8669|1-855-DEJELO-YA /1-855-335-3569 –Spanish 
  • Eat a healthy and balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, especially berries and green leafy vegetables. 
  • Get a good night's sleep for at least 7-8 hours. 
  • Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. 
  • Schedule regular checkups with your doctor for routine screenings and vaccinations.  
  • Engage and connect with your community to participate in health promotion and wellness activities and events. 

Whatever your age or health status, it is important to understand your risk of memory loss and what you can do to protect your brain health. 

Slower thinking rates, difficulties juggling many tasks, and occasional memory loss are all common as we become older since these abilities change naturally (i.e., misplacing items, forgetting a name you just learned, etc.) But cognitive impairment brought on by memory changes is not a typical aspect of aging