Start Your Mind to Prevent Decline

I discovered in my "Baby Boomer" folder a USA Today headline stating that by increasing certain activities adults may prevent or delay severe cognitive decline a.k.a Alzheimer's. Just between you and me, that's probably the scariest thing I can imagine happening to you or a loved one. The common sense suggestions, however, don't sound like anything groundbreaking: Increase your mental stimulation, leisure activities, aerobic activities, and eat more antioxidant-rich foods. Isn't this every doctor's advice to his patients?

My aunt developed Alzheimer's at a relatively young age (66) and she was extremely active (bowling, fine detailed needlework, crossword puzzles.) So it seems that there must be another component involved if we are to minimize mental decline in later years.

We've heard often enough that "Attitude is everything." While my aunt was physically engaged in her world, she was not emotionally engaged. I think the greatest defense against any debilitating mental or physical dis-ease is the ability to step outside ourselves and engage in a meaningful way.

My mother-in-law is 82. She's the mother of 11 children, 18 grandchildren, several step-grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, numerous daughters- and sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many friends. Every year we each receive a birthday card wishing us well (and a check!)

She may have memory lapses over small things, but she remembers what's important. That, to me, is what prevents decline in mid-life and beyond.