The Scientific American Healthy Aging Brain: The Neuroscience of Making the Most of Your Mature Mind

From the Author: Five Surprising Ways to Boost an Older Brain

Sometimes it seems that everything the doctor orders can be uncomfortable, unpleasant or boring. Fortunately, research is showing that our brains benefit and even thrive on many activities that give pleasure and zest to life. While not proven to prevent dementia, studies have found a lower risk of Alzheimer's is associated with some of the things we love to do best.

1. Socialize. An active social life is connected with better brain health––and isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks of death and dementia. In fact, real life social networks can be better for your health than exercising.
   
   
2. Take a trip. An eight-year study found those who stuck to their rooms or immediate home had almost twice the risk of developing Alzheimer’s as those who got up, out and about––good reason to take that long-awaited trip.
   
   
3. Enjoy Sex. Orgasm floods the brain with oxygen-rich blood, pleasure- producing dopamine and may provoke growth of new brain cells. No partner? No problem, say the experts: Orgasms have that good effect whatever the source.
   
   
4. Relax. Stress contributes to inflammation and a host of bad effects on body and brain that increase risks of dementia. Meditation, yoga and tai chi are connected with better brain function, but you may find relaxation through a soothing walk in the countryside or an engaging hobby.
   
   
5. Be Creative. The long-term productivity of many artists, musicians and writers is testimony to the good effects of creative endeavors on the brain. And you don’t have to be a pro: a study of seniors enrolled in weekly art activities found they had significantly better physical and mental health than those who weren’t so occupied.