You Are Only As Old As You Think You Are

New research is coming out that indicates that the human brain can actually generate new brain cells. This is the kind of news I've been waiting for!

Dr. Paul Nussbaum, an Adjunct Associate Professor in Neurological Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, says that "new brain research indicates that the brain continues to develop in humans in their 20’s and that we continue to be able to help our brains well into later life. Other studies have shown a relationship between creativity and advanced age,” he said.

For those over 50, Dr. Nussbaum acknowledges that one’s ability to remember names, retrieve information and multi-task diminishes with age and is not necessarily a disease. He encourages learning throughout the lifespan to maintain mental acuity.

Dr. Nussbaum says that a healthy lifestyle characterized by socialization, physical activity, mental activity, spirituality, and nutrition leads to improved brain health. Individuals should reduce their caloric intake to 80% of what they intend to consume at each meal because overeating and obesity do not contribute to brain health.

Dr. Nussbaum discourages television viewing, encourages ambidexterity and challenges the traditional concept of “retirement”, indicating, instead, that older people should continue to be engaged and productive. People who isolate have a higher risk of dementia. He reports that chronic stress has been demonstrated to accelerate aging.

So there you have it. Do you want to stay mentally sharp? Then turn off the TV, take a walk with a friend, enjoy a good conversation, read a book in order to learn something new, pray and eat healthy. You are only as old as you think you are. Now, if I could only remember where I placed my glasses!