That's the growing conclusion of research that shows fogged memory and slowed wit are not inevitable consequences of getting old, and there are steps people can take to protect their brains.
Mental exercise seems crucial.
Benefits start when parents read to tots and depend heavily on education, but scientists say it's never too late to start jogging the gray matter. People have to get physical, too. Bad memory is linked to heart disease, diabetes and a high-fat diet, all risks people can counter by living healthier lives. In fact, provocative new research suggests these brain-protective steps, mental and physical, may be strong enough even to help influence who gets Alzheimer's disease. It's also good advice for the average baby boomer hoping to stay sharp, or the mom priming her child for a lifelong healthy brain.