The general wisdom was, until recently, “if you want to live a long, healthy life, choose your grandparents wisely.” while, of course, one can’t, just 30 percent of physical aging is genetically predetermined, according to an eight-year study of 1,000 well-functioning seniors by macarthur “genius” grant recipients john rowe and robert kahn.Cognitive processes in learning

Brain and body are connected; what is healthy for one promotes fitness in the other. What constitutes a minimum of exercise? The research-based lifetime fitness program guides participants through 20 minutes of aerobic activity, 20 minutes of upper- and lower-body weight training, and a 10-minute stretch-and-flex routine three times a week.Cognitive processes in learning older participants feel better, have fewer falls and fractures, and experience social benefits. 2. Nurture friendships, not necessarily family

cognitive processes in learning

Evidence suggests that whether it’s praying or putting, hiking or poker, what enhances well-being is the getting together, not the activity. People who see other people on a regular basis are sick less and live longer.Cognitive processes in learning A recent study found that folks with close friends and confidants lived longer than those without, while tight family relationships made no difference in mortality.Cognitive processes in learning in fact, avoiding negative family members may enhance health and longevity.

What lifestyles, then, do prevent age-related declines? A fascinating body of research by david snowdon on the aging brain, known as the nun study, gives enticing clues.Cognitive processes in learning an analysis of handwritten autobiographies from 180 of the school sisters of notre dame at the average age of 22 found that positive emotional content was strongly associated with health and longevity six decades later.Cognitive processes in learning feeling bad about getting old may be bad for you: studies by becca levy of yale university show that holding negative aging stereotypes may not only result in a decline in memory and self-efficacy, but may shorten your life by almost eight years. 3.Cognitive processes in learning be cognitively stimulated early

Studies at tufts university’s human nutrition research center on aging suggest that the capacity of fruits and vegetables to absorb damaging free radicals cuts the risk of dementia, while the same antioxidant-rich foods also prevent some loss of learning and memory function.Cognitive processes in learning and don’t forget hydration—most of us need more water than we drink. Dehydration causes cognitive malfunctions. 6. Kick nasty habits

While any of the above may enhance your later years, the synergy from combining them is suggested by a major research project just published in neurobiology of aging.Cognitive processes in learning the study on dogs divided 48 older beagles into four groups. The first received regular food and standard care. The second received standard care and a diet rich in antioxidants.Cognitive processes in learning the third was fed a regular diet but had a stimulating environment. The fourth group received the special diet and the challenging and enjoyable environment.Cognitive processes in learning while the groups with improved diet or improved environment did better than the standard care and nutrition group, it was the dogs that received both better food and environment that did best with complex learning tasks.Cognitive processes in learning

It’s a no-brainer: an engaging social environment, combined with good nutrition and daily exercise, helps keep the brain healthy. Older people who are involved with friends, physical activities, and lifelong learning profess joy at being alive.Cognitive processes in learning wholehearted participation in these pursuits gives meaning to old age and helps elevate the quality of life for those years.