This little audio book is a gem! Many of us have had the sad experience of watching an older person who is dear to us decline mentally, perhaps it is dementia, Alzheimers. Whatever the case memory is impaired. Perhaps we then see ourselves in the same condition some years hence. Not necessarily so say the co-authors of Keep Your Brain Alive, one a Professor of Neurobiology at Duke University, the other a researcher whose work focused on brain development.
They suggest simple yet fun exercises that "help stimulate the production of nutrients that grow brain cells to keep the brain younger and stronger." Put quite simply, there are areas of our brains that we do not use. Areas in frequent use produce new nerve cells, the unused areas simply fade away and die. Studies seem to indicate that memory loss may be due to always using those familiar areas while neglecting others.
The authors propose 83 exercises that will stimulate these little traveled paths, such as brushing your teeth with the hand that you do not normally use. It is explained that when you do this you're forcing another area of the brain to do the work. Try taking your morning shower with your eyes closed - again putting another area of your brain to work. How about not speaking at dinner, allowing your contact with one another to be visual rather than oral?
Simple suggestions? Yes. But, intriguing ideas and you know what is said about an ounce of prevention.
