Building and maintaining the ability of an individual to make flexible and efficient use of available brain resources when performing tasks and—at the same time—to compensate, at least in part, for brain damage is crucial for maintaining cognitive performance.

Adequate sensory stimulation is necessary for optimal brain function. Sensory deprivation, through impairment of hearing or vision, may have severe consequences leading to brain atrophy and cognitive decline. Yet, in most cases, this is easily preventable.

Healthy brain vessels ensure delivery of oxygen and nutrients, removal of waste, and prevent vascular-related conditions that can impair cognitive function. Protecting vascular health through lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, healthy diet, well-controlled blood pressure, and avoidance of smoking not only benefits cardiovascular health, but also promotes longevity and cognitive resilience.

Avoiding depression and social isolation contributes to brain health by reducing stress, enhancing neuroplasticity, preventing cognitive decline, and promoting healthy brain chemistry. Strong emotional resilience and meaningful social connections offer protective benefits against neurodegenerative as well as mental health disorders.

Sufficient sleep helps maintain healthy brain cells and clear plaque-forming proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Sufficient physical activity and adequate nutrition help preserve brain volume, increase levels of brain growth factors, and improve cognitive ability. Both also protect against other risk factors of dementia such as diabetes or obesity.