Brain Resiliency Helps Maintain Good Cognitive Health

Neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. It manages how the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain compensate for injury and disease and respond to new situations or changes in their environment. 

Scientists used to believe neuroplasticity only occurred in the young but now know it happens throughout a person’s lifetime, making new connections and reorganizing pathways. This knowledge has resulted in the “development of tools and techniques to promote neuroplasticity and brain health as people age.” Additionally it gives hope for better recoveries for stroke victims and people suffering from traumatic brain injuries.

Some of the ways healthcare providers help to exercise and maintain strong cognitive function for their patients is by building new pathways with music therapy, virtual reality and imagining physical movement. Researchers say if you want to improve brain plasticity on your own, start by exercising your brain with challenging activities requiring focus. This could include learning to play an instrument, exploring the arts, and traveling to new places. 

Getting a good night’s sleep is another important thing to keeping the brain sharp and some studies have even shown lack of sleep may put a person more at risk for dementia. Physical exercise is another way to improve brain plasticity. In fact studies “associate physical activity with preventing neuron loss in the hippocampus, the area of the brain that involves memory and other important functions.” Researchers say these new findings will help doctors develop better treatments not only for those with brain injuries but people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and stroke.

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Source: medicinenet.com/neuroplasticity/definition.htm

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