One of the primary fears Americans share all throughout the country is they might experience severe memory loss in their senior years. While it’s natural to worry about the type of memory decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, the fears that younger Americans share are often a little exaggerated. For example, in one survey, approximately 57% of adults between the ages of 18-64 believed they would suffer from some form of memory loss during their senior years. However, studies show that only 25% of adults over the age of 65 actually do experience memory loss. While the fears might be exaggerated, it doesn’t mean people shouldn’t work to keep their brains active. Your memory helps you accomplish both basic and complex tasks, so it’s vital to keep your brain healthy and fit. You can start by focusing on exercise, both mentally and physically. Just like talking daily walks or bike rides can help your body function normally, doing daily mental exercises can help build your memory. Consider using acronyms to help you remember items to pick up at the grocery store. Experts also recommend talking out loud and doodling as great memory building techniques. In addition to these daily exercises, your brain is best worked when you’re challenging it. Especially during retirement when you have a little more free time, consider trying your hand at a new hobby. If you’ve always wanted to play an instrument, start taking classes. If you’ve always been interested in learning a new language, download a helpful phone app like Duolingo and get started. Another great way to prevent memory loss is to reduce the amount of stress you face. Because your brain can only process so much information at any one time, when your cognitive load is bigger than your brain’s ability to handle it, you can’t learn or consolidate new knowledge as effectively. If you feel like you’re rushing, slow down. If you feel overwhelmed, try talking to someone or perhaps even look into meditation. Because the human brain has the fantastic ability to take in new information, change, create new neural connections, and store important information in its long- term memory, seeking out new learning opportunities helps keep your long- and short-term memory intact! TIPS FOR BOOSTING YOUR BRAIN IN YOUR SENIOR YEARS KEEPING YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES
CHOCOLATE-DIPPED FRUIT
Inspired by Food Network
This super easy and fun way to create homemade treats provides your kids with a healthier and more delicious alternative to packaged industrial candy. As a bonus, making it is an awesome Halloween activity for your family to enjoy.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 package melting chocolate • Assorted dried fruit, including apricots and mangoes
1. In a large saucepan, bring 1 inch of water to a boil. 2. Place a large, heatproof mixing bowl on top of saucepan so that no steam can escape. Place melting chocolate in mixing bowl and double boil until melted. 3. Dip half of each piece of fruit in chocolate before transferring to a parchment-lined baking sheet to rest. 4. Let cool for 10 minutes until chocolate solidifies. 5. Place in school lunches, serve at parties, and indulge in a few for yourself. DIRECTIONS
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