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The 6 Pillars of Brain Health

AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health reviewed the latest research on how to support our memory, thinking and overall cognitive health. Learn how to build habits around the six pillars of brain health.

Staying Sharp’s Six Pillars of Brain Health

A healthy lifestyle helps you support your brain health. Learn how to practice these six pillars of brain health.

Be Social

The health impacts of loneliness can be extensive. Having strong family and social circles is good for you, as is volunteering in your community.

Engage Your Brain

Stay curious and keep learning — pick up an instrument, a new language, pickleball, knitting, reading — your brain will thank you.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can harm memory, mood and cognition. Finding balance is key: We offer easy ways to incorporate mindfulness into your days.

Ongoing Exercise

Physically active people have a lower risk of cognitive decline, says AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health. There are lots of ways to get moving.

Restorative Sleep

Quality sleep can help protect against cognitive decline, scientists say. Check out strategies and challenges to make sleep your superpower.

Eat Right

A healthy diet is crucial to optimal brain health. Eat Mediterranean — whole grains, beans, seafood, healthy fats. We can show you how.

Latest in Brain Health

Ongoing Exercise

Start Healthy Habits With SMART Goals

Achieving your health goals is all about strategy

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Ongoing Exercise

Work Out With Denise Austin: Mini Squats

They can help you strengthen and tone your lower body

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Ongoing Exercise

Yoga With Denise Austin: Half Moon Pose

Stretch your hamstrings and improve balance with this yoga pose

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Eat Right

5 Simple Food Choices to Support Brain Health

These food picks are full of nutrition that can support brain health

Be Social

Challenge Your Brain With a Fun Improv Game

For a mental workout — and some guaranteed laughs

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Manage Stress

3 Ways Black Americans Can Combat Dementia

Simple lifestyle changes can offer powerful protection

Engage Your Brain

Learn New Skills and Stay Engaged

Discover how to keep your mind active with classes and new experiences

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Be Social

Give Your Brain a Workout with a Game of Mahjong

The popular tile game is a fun way to socialize and test your focus

Restorative Sleep

Slow Moves for a Better Night’s Sleep

Mindful exercise can ease insomnia and improve sleep, research shows

Manage Stress

Why You Shouldn’t Mix Menopause With Alcohol

The two are an unhealthy combination for mood and memory

Manage Stress

Struggling to Meditate? Try These Tips

Expert-backed tips to help meditation finally click for you

Be Social

Could Raving Be the Secret to Longevity?

How one scientist is researching the benefits of raves for healthy aging

Eat Right

Get More Flavonoids With Fruit in Your Meals

Start with adding apples, berries and oranges to your diet

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Engage Your Brain

Memorize a Masterpiece for Brain Health

Challenge your brain by learning a favorite verse by heart

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Eat Right

Omega-3 Fish for a Healthier Brain

Aim to get at least two servings of omega-rich fish each week

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Eat Right

Reduce Sodium Intake for Better Brain Health

Find alternatives for extra salt with tasty options

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AARP Brain Health Resource Center

Find explainers on dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, head injuries and mental-health topics. Learn about healthy habits that support memory and mental skills.

Learn, take action, build healthy habits

Legal Disclaimer: Staying Sharp, including all content and features, is offered for informational purposes and to educate users on brain health care and medical issues that may affect their daily lives. Staying Sharp is based on a holistic, lifestyle approach to brain health that encourages users to incorporate into their daily lives activities that are associated with general wellness. Nothing in the service should be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Features including the Cognitive Assessment and Lifestyle Check-Ins, Additional Tests, exercises, and challenges assess performance at a particular moment in time on certain discrete cognitive tasks. Staying Sharp games are intended for entertainment and recreational purposes only. Various factors may affect performance, including sleep, tiredness, focus, and other social, environmental, or emotional factors. Performance is not indicative of cognitive health and not predictive of future performance or medical conditions.

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