78-Year-Old Professor With A Razor Sharp Mind Shares 5 Daily Habits For A Healthy Brain

Healthy Brain Habits: Aging affects the brain, making forgetfulness common. NIH says memory changes are natural with age as the brain undergoes gradual transformations.

A ‘razor-sharp‘ brain is rare among older people. Regardless of age, we all have moments when we forget names, places or things, but it is especially common as we grow older. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), as an individual gets older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. This results in difficulty in remembering information.

5 Daily Habits For A Healthy Brain

In a recent development, Anthony D. Fredericks, 78, who has worked for more than three decades as a professor of education, tells a leading media outlet the incredible habits that keep his brain in top shape.

1. Socialize Regularly

Social interaction has, over time, been shown to reduce stress and depression. The 78-year-old professor suggests that spending more time with relatives, friends, joining community groups, dining with colleagues, or volunteering for social causes can improve both our mental well-being and cognitive skills.

“My wife and I travel and dine regularly with our best friends, volunteer at a regional art association, and we frequent a local social club,” says Fredericks.

2. Learn Every Day

An active mind slows cognitive decline and maintains mental sharpness as we age. Fredericks tells, “I’m a big believer in reading widely, and outside your expertise. It may be one of the most significant things we can do to refresh our inherent curiosity. When we’re curious, we want to learn more. In that pursuit, we keep our minds active and engaged.”

3. Staying Organized

Staying organized can contribute to maintaining a healthy brain, as this subtle habit can reduce mental fatigue, resulting in slowing down cognitive decline.

“Walk into my office and you’ll see an array of Post-it notes. I use a colour coding system to keep track of my daily responsibilities. Yellow for articles I’m working on, blue for specific chapters in a book I’m writing, green for medical reminders (prescription refills, doctor appointments), orange for household tasks, and pink for errands (grocery items, hardware store),” Fredericks told.

“I stumbled across this system when I was working on a new book. I inadvertently wrote preliminary notes for some chapters on different colored sticky notes, and my plan for the book immediately felt clearer. I realized that I could use this approach for other aspects of my life, too, and it’s made a big difference.”

4. Stay Active

Staying active regularly can improve blood circulation to all parts of your body, including your brain. Study shows that engaging in at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity like brisk walking, swimming, pickleball, tennis, or serious gardening can lead to better brain functioning, specifically in regards to memory.

“I swim two to three dozen laps at the community center every other day and walk one to two miles on the days in between. The key is to do some form of physical activity every day. Even 10 to 15 minutes a day is beneficial,” says Fredericks

5. Healthy Diet

A clean diet, hydration and good quality sleep are all important for a healthy brain. To maintain a razor-sharp brain, Fredericks follows a consistent routine. He explains, “I make sure that I get a minimum of seven hours (11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) of sleep each night. I consume a heart-healthy, nutrient-rich diet think berries, dark leafy green vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, soybeans, omega-3-filled fish like salmon, and other lean proteins.”

“I’m drinking close to eight glasses of water throughout the day. Compelling studies have demonstrated a direct link between proper hydration and cognitive function.”

“Ultimately, I approach maintaining and enhancing my memory like it’s a full-time job. I show up every day. I’m curious and productive. I put effort into my relationships. I’m not afraid to ask for help, but I’m also confident about what I do know. Never underestimate the power of those who prioritize their memory.”

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