Keeping Older Brains Sharp 4/11

Today's session included this presentation by Dr. Lynn Kirby

Mrs. Peggy Greco explained some of the services her work at the Lincoln Center, St. Mike's Hospital and the Portage County Department of Aging can do to help with memory issues and problems. She gave out several handouts, including some excellent ones from the Alzheimer's web site and others.

Dr. Larry Riggs introduced the book The Longevity Project by Friedman and Martin. He mentioned exercise, like gardening and dancing and cooking for oneself. He said that few if any foods have proved especially "magic" in assisting with brain sharpness. Enough water to provide good hydration is important. He said that pessimism is helpful in getting us to think ahead and look out for problems.

Dr. Bill Kirby mentioned isometric exercise, vitamin D and fish oil, the book The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, MD. The software programs by Posit Science seem to be the leaders in the field of computer software that may be helpful. Switching tasks to your minor hand and giving yourself a little workout by putting your trash can in a new place may provide the challenge you need. Meditation is an important, free and valuable tool to stay aware of all parts of yourself, your body and your mind.

Training your brain is good for it but attention and the right level of challenge is needed. A 30% failure rate is about right but it can be frustrating.