Habits to help prevent Dementia Learn a new skill

 2. Learn New Skills and Engage in Cognitive Stimulation

Your brain consists of hundreds of billions of nerve cells (neurons), which make hundreds of trillions of connections (synapses) throughout the brain and nervous system. These compose your neural network or nervous system. The nervous system and brain have a remarkable capacity (neuroplasticity) to continue to grow, evolve, and heal even as you age.

Research shows that engaging in physically and mentally stimulating activities is an important element in strengthening cognitive reserve, which is the brain’s resilience and capacity to function even when there is damage to brain cells. Learning new skills and stimulating the brain on a regular basis boosts cognitive pathways between neurons and builds resiliency in brain function.

The resulting benefits of cognitive stimulation seem to offer protection against brain damage caused by insults such as exposure to air pollution and noise pollution, which have been linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

By Jennifer Weinberg written on November 26, 2019, and published online at https://chopra.com

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only; it does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Chopra Center's Mind-Body Medical Group, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health programs.