Keep Your Brain Healthy: Everyday Habits That Support Long-Term Brain Health

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

Your brain is your most powerful tool—and just like the rest of your body, it needs consistent care to stay strong. While genetics and age can play a role in cognitive decline, daily habits make a real difference in how well your brain functions now and in the future.

Here are some engaging, science-backed, and even surprising ways to keep your mind sharp and thriving:

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1. Make “Play” Part of Your Routine

Daily puzzles like crosswords, Sudoku, and word games challenge memory, logic, and focus. Try switching it up:

• Download brain-training apps like Lumosity or Elevate
• Host a weekly trivia night with friends
• Learn a new board game or card game that involves strategy

2. Engage with Music

Music stimulates multiple areas of the brain. Whether you're dancing, singing, analyzing lyrics, or simply listening to your favorite songs, it can improve mood and memory. Studies have shown that music can activate brain areas involved in attention, memory, and emotion—and may even help people with dementia retrieve lost memories

3. Read Regularly

Reading has been shown to improve brain connectivity, reduce stress, and slow cognitive decline. According to a study published in Neurology, people who engaged in reading and other mentally stimulating activities throughout life had slower rates of memory decline in old age. Choose fiction, nonfiction, newspapers—whatever keeps you curious and engaged

4. Feed Your Brain (Literally)

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and colorful fruits and vegetables is proven to support brain function. Try to include:

• Leafy greens like spinach and kale
• Berries (especially blueberries)
• Walnuts, flaxseeds, and fatty fish like salmon

Pro tip: A Mediterranean-style diet has been linked to lower risk of cognitive decline.

5. Embrace the Novel

New experiences stimulate new neural connections. Try:

• Taking a new route to work
• Learning a new language
• Traveling (even locally) to unfamiliar places
• Taking up a new hobby like pottery or dance

The goal? Get out of autopilot.

6. Practice “Brainful” Movement

Exercise is great for the brain—but adding mental engagement makes it even better.

• Dance classes (choreography requires memory and coordination)
• Martial arts or yoga (combine movement, focus, and mindfulness)
• Even walking while listening to an educational podcast can boost brain health

7. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep isn’t just rest—it’s the time your brain files memories and clears out toxins. Aim for 7–9 hours a night and try to keep a consistent schedule. Trouble sleeping? Evaluate screen time, caffeine intake, and evening routines.

Know the Warning Signs

While occasional forgetfulness is normal, persistent memory loss or confusion should be taken seriously. Signs to watch for include:

• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Trouble with language or understanding visual images
• Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps
• Changes in mood, behavior, or judgment

If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to seek medical guidance.

Want to Take It One Step Further?

At Connected Health, we offer brain health screenings and a cutting-edge Alzheimer’s blood test to give you deeper insight into your cognitive health. It’s never too early—or too late—to be proactive.