#051 - Researchers have been investigating brain health recommendations that help to reduce our risk for cognitive decline in older adulthood. Many of the tips  that I'm going to share today are really about how to live your healthiest life and achieve optimal physical health, brain health, and mental health in older adulthood.  You may already be doing many of these recommendations. As you listen to this episode, take notes and make a list. Put a check mark by items that you are currently doing and a star next to the items that you need to be doing more of to achieve optimal health. At the end of the episode, give yourself some praise for what you're already doing, then choose one of the starred items to focus on to optimize your brain health and mental health.  Let's dive in to the 12 evidence-based brain health recommendations to reduce your risk for cognitive decline and dementia and promote mental well being:Here's a peak into the episode[02:55] Brain Health Recommendation #1: Engage in your social life by spending time with friends and in your community[07:29] Brain Health Recommendation #2: Avoid excessive alcohol & other harmful substances[09:49] Brain Health Recommendation #3: Eat a nutritious diet [13:54] Brain Health Recommendation #4: Maintain heart health (cardiovascular health)[16:01] Brain Health Recommendation #5: Engage in physical activity[19:36] Brain Health Recommendation #6: Get 7-8 hours of sleep a night (consistently)[23:33] Brain Health Recommendation #7: Find a sense of meaning and purpose in life[25:11] Brain Health Recommendation #8: Think positively about aging[30:22] Brain Health Recommendation #9: Engage in enjoyable activities[30:55] Brain Health Recommendation #10: Be mindful of medications contraindicated for older adults[32:32] Brain Health Recommendation #11: Avoid smoking and other environmental toxins[33:52] Brain Health Recommendation #12: Get treatment for mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.Click here to listen to the podcastFREE GUIDESDownload the Memory Loss Guide hereInterested in working with me? For Families: Click hereFor Professionals: Click hereHelp others find this show by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or here on i-tunes. --DISCLAIMER: The material on this site is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Koepp may make on the TV Show, blog, or in response to an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a psychologist-patient relationship between Dr. Koepp and the individual. None of Dr. Koepp's show, website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical or mental health assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Koepp is only representing herself in her TV Show, blogs, and on her website.