Research shows there are three areas to consider when you plan to maintain and improve the health of your brain: your mind, your body, and your spirit.

But why is brain health important? Actively keeping your brain in good shape will help you stay mentally sharp as you age, and the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Healthy Brain program will give you the information you need to get started.

Although it is still not possible to talk about absolute prevention, research increasingly confirms that taking these steps now may reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia in the future.

There are many healthy activities that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine. The sooner you start the better; Alzheimer's is not just an "old person's disease", and defensive action needs to start early in life.

Did you know...

  • Most Canadians (78%) think brain health is at least as important as physical health - but aren't sure what it takes to keep their brain in good shape.
  • What's good for your heart is good for your head! Choosing to eat well and exercise can help reduce your risk for developing Alzheimer's.

Making A Plan - Mind, Body, Spirit

The information offered here will guide you, and help you prioritize your health goals.

You may find you're already doing some things, but that there are areas where you can make improvements. Remember - you need to take action in all three areas, so take time to explore them!

We offer suggestions at three levels:

  1. Bronze
  2. Silver
  3. Gold

Choose the level at which to challenge yourself, and print off the Healthy Brain worksheet to remind you of the goals you set.

>> Print the Healthy Brain worksheet…

You don't need to aim for the Gold level to make improvements - starting at any level will be good for your brain. Instead, be realistic with your goals; it is better to do some things that you can stick to, than to set unrealistic targets.

Revisit your goals from time to time, and check where you can make more positive changes!

  • MIND: You need to be a life-long learner - use your brain now and in varied ways to keep yourself mentally fit. Get started...
  • BODY: A healthy lifestyle that is good for the body's health will support good mental fitness and a healthy brain. Get started...
  • SPIRIT: Healthy brains need purpose, perspective, and social connections. Get started...

Note: Your abilities, health situation and interests should be taken into consideration when choosing brain healthy activities. If you have questions about your own situation, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.

Did you know...

  • A study conducted at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) - reported in the American Journal of Psychiatry (June 2006) - revealed that simple lifestyle changes applied for only 14 days helped some people show increased brain efficiency. Read more...
  • Okinawan's live longer and in a more healthy state than anywhere else in the world. Read more about the Okinawa Centarian Study...