State of Readiness

Contemplation
(The Why)
Preparation
(The Plan)
Action
(The Process)

Maximize Your Memory

  • Your brain is your most powerful organ, and has three main parts:
    • Cerebrum: takes up the most space and is involved in remembering, problem solving, thinking, feeling, and controlling movement.
    • Cerebellum: near the back of the head and is responsible for coordination and balance.
    • Brain stem: connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls functions such as breathing, digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure.
  • With each heartbeat, blood is carried to the brain for use by the brain cells.
  • An adult brain contains about 100 billion nerve cells, with branches that connect at more than 100 trillion points.
  • Signals traveling through the network form the basis of memories, thoughts, and feelings.
  • Memories and thoughts move through an individual nerve cell as a tiny electrical charge.
  • Nerve cells connect to one another at synapses.
  • When a charge reaches a synapse, it may trigger the release of tiny bursts of chemicals called neurotransmitters.
  • The neurotransmitters travel across the synapse, carrying signals to other cells.

Myths

  • It’s all in our genes
    • A big component of our lifelong brain health and development depends on what we do with our brains
  • Expensive computer programs are required to improve our brains
    • Every time we learn a new skill, concept or fact, we change our brains
  • Brain exercise is only for seniors
    • People of all ages can benefit from regular brain exercises

Facts

  • Individuals who lead mentally stimulating lives, through education, occupation and leisure activities, have reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s
    • Studies suggest 35-40% lower risk (Cognitive Reserve and Alzheimer’s Disease: Sern, Y.)
  • Brain can change, at any age
    • Age-related cognitive decline typically starts at about 40
    • Significant percentages of participants age 65 and older who trained for five weeks improved their memory, reasoning and information-processing speed – American Medical Association

3 Factors That Characterized Those Who Maintained Their Mental Abilities

  • They were more mentally active
  • They were more physically active
  • They maintained a sense of effectiveness in the world
    • They felt like they were contributing to the family and the world
    • They generally felt good about themselves

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