As you know, I strongly encourage people to make health priority number one. In fact, it's the first of my four tenets of equanimity. Without good health, everything else suffers.

That includes mental health.

I spend considerable amounts of time each day moving my body, but I also exercise my mind.

With an aging population the number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are on the rise.

I have personally witnessed someone I love suffering the steady decline of cognitive atrophy, and it’s painful and sad.

My beautiful mother struggled from Parkinson's disease and dementia. It was a persistent decline that resulted in her death several years ago.

Experts believe dementia will increase as baby boomers age.

Research published in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services determined cognitive and physical activity was key to inhibiting dementia. They also concluded that social engagement and nutrition were equally as important.

Although there’s no way to guarantee we don’t experience these debilitating illnesses, there are some things we can do to decrease the likelihood of cognitive decline.

Neuroscience advocates prevention as a viable tool in the fight to prevent dementia. Modifiable risk factors influence cognitive decline, and we can take certain steps throughout our life to ensure our brain is being sufficiently challenged.

"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. "

--GEORGE BERNARD SHAW

TO BE MORE MENTALLY STRONG 8 HABITS HELP:

01. MENTALLY ACTIVE

Experts refer to the process of developing mental acuity as cognitive reserve. By strengthening our brain, we prepare for the possibility of illness or mental decline. By engaging in activities that keep us mentally stimulated, we condition our brain to stay lucid. Reading, playing musical instruments and learning another language are great ways to keep our brain fit.

02. SOCIALIZE

Some of us are much more socially active than others. However, staying socially engaged is essential for keeping our grey matter sharp. Social isolation has many detrimental side effects. One is cognitive decline and increased chance of dementia. Enjoy lively conversation often to defend against mental decline.

"Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever."

--WALT DISNEY

03. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Our brain thrives on oxygen and other critical nutrients. Staying physically fit is the best way to ensure our brain gets what it desires. Creating an active daily routine that features physical activity will dramatically reduce the risk factors that promote cognitive decline. Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are at the top of that list. Stay active!

04. DIET

I am not here to give specific dietary advice. However, eating well is imperative for better health. Our brain and body both have specific diet requirements that help us perform at our best. Cleansing our brain of free radicals is essential for better brain health. Find a professional to help you create a diet that feeds your brain and body well.

05. STAY RELEVANT

In my first book Anatomy of Success, I argue that retirement is a bad idea. Many people spend 40 to 50 years squirreling away the scraps of their efforts for this elusive cornucopia called retirement. Assuming they don’t die from cardiac arrest, they aspire for leisurely walks along the beach.

Unfortunately, they seldom have the resources to support their dream, let alone cover medical bills.

With their health compromised, the golden years become a period of sadness, loneliness, boredom, and decay physically, mentally, and professionally.

The good news is there’s an alternative. Make education your lifelong ambition and stay relevant. Teach, volunteer, stay involved in your business or help a young entrepreneur build their company.

06. GET OUTSIDE

Enjoy the great outdoors everyday if you can. I take long walks seven days a week. Nature is a beautiful place to express gratitude and stay curious. Stay open minded and use walks as a time to talk to yourself and explore new interests. Scientists at the University of Georgia have discovered that Curiosity, creativity, and willingness to learn lower the risk of dementia. Long walks in beautiful surroundings is a great way to stimulate our creative energy.

07. MEDITATE

Practice of mindfulness is important to become more present and embrace our emotional state. Mindfulness also improves our executive function, memory, and attention span; all positively improve mental decline. Practice various forms of meditation and see what resonates with you. It’s a great way to stay in touch with our mind and body.

08. STAY POSITIVE

Dong these things regularly will impact our attitude, and a positive attitude will take us far. Many people get depressed as they get older and lack the ability to reconcile with mortality. It’s easy to get discouraged when our physical and mental strength declines. Staying positive is key to aging with dignity and a decision to stay relevant. Surround yourself with positive people that are on the same path, regardless of what stage you’re at in life.

"You are as young as your faith, as old as you doubt ; as young as your self confidence and as old as your fear, as young as your hope, as old as your despair."

-- DOUGLAS MACARTHUR

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