As the years roll on bodies tire and the mind slows down: is there any another way? The fact is age comes to every one but everyone has the choice to slow down the consequences of aging. The fact is we must use our brains! The human mind is a complex and powerful tool. Just a fire needs constant wood to burn the mind needs constant nourishment otherwise it will dwindle and disappear.

Some people argue that alzheimer's and dementia run in their family and they can't do anything to prevent deterioration. These conditions are hereditary but by being physically active, mentally aware and socially involved can prolong the eventual affects.

Physical Activity is a must! The body was designed to move, too often older people cut out physically activity and sit for hours and hours encouraging their spine to compress, muscles to tighten and blood flow to slow down. Obviously the amount of physically activity you engage in must be relative to your condition. It's are great rule of thumb to replace activity that you no longer can do with something that you can, for example replace running with walking or water aerobics. It's scientifically proven that exercise releases chemicals that make the body feel good and feeling good is an essential factor to aging graciously. Also, the sheer act of physically exerting your body challenges your brain to make connect neuromuscular pathways and studies have shown that older people who walk daily are more alert and mentally sound.

1. Use your mind. Avoid sitting for hours watching soap operas this doesn't challenge your mind, if anything it shuts it down. Read, work on puzzles of all kinds, write letters and emails, keep up to date with local and global news etc... Your mind must be nourished, it must be challenged frequently throughout the day to maintain good functioning. To help with memory write down dates, names and phone numbers, put needed objects like keys and wallets in the same place and create routines and schedules that will keep you occupied.
2. Be social. It's important to be involved in a social circle. Keep in contact with good friends go out to lunch frequently visit the movies together, visit and take trips to be with family members and be willing to make new friends. Being around others will make you feel loved and youthful. Studies have proved that people who secluded themselves from society and social circles are more likely to become depressed and deteriorate quicker. You might complain that you are embarrassed of your forgetfulness, if this is the case be open and honest with your family and friends ask them to help you and you will be surprised at their willingness and support.

Today's society is so focused on altering the aesthetic signs of aging such as saggy skin, lined foreheads, wrinkles and age spots but in reality we should be concerned with the affects of aging that steal our ability to think and function. Be active in claiming your body and mind. You have a choice to either deteriorate and be a vegetable or to fully enjoy your latter years- the choice is your!