Massachusetts Institute of Technology English
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology English
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology English
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology English
BUILD UP A COGNITIVE RESERVE
Research demonstrates that an active brain is associated with better cognitive health and a reduced risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that participants who spent time on activities such as reading newspapers, playing puzzle games, or listening to the radio frequently were 47% less likely to develop AD than those who did them less often. It's possible that these activities protect the brain by establishing a "cognitive reserve," helping it become more adaptable and flexible in some areas to compensate for declines in others.
DO DIFFICULT THINGS
Evidence shows that mental stimulation also enhances the brain's networks of connections and encourages "brain plasticity" (the brain's ability to physically and functionally change). Cross-train your brain by doing things you haven't done before, perhaps learning a new language or to play a new musical instrument. To stay sharp, Dr. Green advises that you continually find new projects and hobbies to challenge your intellectual skills. Take a class at the local community college or take a free course online -- universities that offer online courses at no charge include Berkeley University of California (http://webcast.berkeley.edu/courses.php)... Carnegie Mellon University (http://www.cmu.edu/oli/)... Massachusetts Institute of Technology (http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/home/home/index.htm)... and Tufts University (http://ocw.tufts.edu/).
PLAY BRAIN-TRAINING GAMES
There are many ways, both offline and online, to engage in fun, daily mental workouts that are efficient and effective:
- Do crossword puzzles, Sudoku and jigsaws. For online puzzles go to www.cbsnews.com and click on "Puzzles & Toons." Go to www.jigzone.com for jigsaw and other puzzles.
- Memorize a new word and definition each day at www.wordsmith.org.
- Do math calculations. Visit www.sharpbrains.com for free math brain teasers. Or go to www.gamequarium.com/math.htm.
- Play strategic games such as Battleship and Scrabble (http://www.puzzlexpress.com/Java/Battle/Battle.htm and www.download-free-games.com).
- Try new recipes at recipesource.com or epicurious.com.
- Watch game shows... and participate. Programs like Wheel of Fortune and The Price is Right can not only entertain, but also exercise your brain as well. Check your local television listings for scheduling information. Or go online at wheeloffortune.com or priceisright.com to play.
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