As we age, it’s natural for our brains to slow down a bit. Our memory may not be as sharp as it once was, and we may take longer to learn new things.

However, there is a subset of older adults known as super-agers who seem to defy the normal aging process. These individuals have memory and cognitive abilities that are as good as, if not better than, people much younger than them. Here are some habits that super-agers have in common.

They Stay Mentally Stimulated

Super-agers challenge themselves mentally on a regular basis. They engage in activities that force them to think, learn, and problem-solve. This could include crossword puzzles, Sudoku, reading, or taking up a new hobby.

Research has shown that mental stimulation can help build new neural pathways and strengthen existing ones.

They Stay Physically Active

In addition to keeping their minds active, super-agers also make sure to stay physically active. Exercise has been shown to boost cognitive function and may even help protect against age-related cognitive decline.

Super-agers may engage in activities such as walking, yoga, or swimming to stay fit and active.

Super-agers tend to have strong social connections with family, friends, and community members. Socializing can help stimulate the brain and may even have a protective effect against cognitive decline.

Super-agers may participate in social activities such as volunteering, book clubs, or game nights to stay engaged with others.

They Maintain a Healthy Diet

Super-agers are careful to maintain a healthy diet that provides their brains with the nutrients they need to function properly. They eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

They may also supplement their diet with brain-boosting foods such as salmon, blueberries, and nuts.

They Manage Stress

To keep their minds sharp, super-agers make sure to manage stress in healthy ways. Chronic stress can have a negative impact on cognitive function and can even shrink the brain’s memory centers.

Super-agers may engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.

They Get Enough Sleep

Super-agers know that sleep is essential for a healthy brain. Sleep allows the brain to consolidate memories and clear out toxins that build up during the day.

Super-agers make sure to get enough sleep each night and may even take naps during the day to recharge their brains.

They Stay Curious

Perhaps most importantly, super-agers stay curious about the world around them. They are lifelong learners who are always seeking out new experiences and information.

This curiosity helps to keep the brain engaged and may even promote the growth of new brain cells.

Conclusion

While we may not all be able to be super-agers, we can certainly learn from their habits.

By staying mentally and physically active, maintaining strong social connections, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and staying curious about the world around us, we may be able to slow down the natural aging process and keep our minds sharp for years to come.