Memory and Brain Health

Brain health and mental health are related, but they aren’t the same. 

Mental health refers to your emotional well-being - how you feel, cope and enjoy life. 

Brain health, on the other hand, is about how your brain functions - your ability to think clearly, learn new things, remember information and control movement. 

As you get older, it’s normal to experience some forgetfulness or slower thinking. A mild decrease in coordination or reaction time is also common. These changes are usually not a sign of a serious condition but keeping your brain active and healthy can make a difference over time. 

How to keep your brain sharp 

While some changes to brain function are part of aging, you can adopt healthy habits that support lifelong cognitive health. Here are some ways to strengthen your brain and memory: 

• Learn something new. Try a new hobby or skill - such as cooking, photography or learning a language - to stimulate new connections in your brain. 
• Play games and puzzles. Crossword puzzles, Sudoku and chess engage short-term memory and problem-solving skills. 
• Find meaningful activities. Volunteering, fostering a pet or taking on a passion project gives your days purpose and keeps your brain engaged. 
• Stay physically active. Regular exercise helps protect against cognitive decline and can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. 
• Read regularly. Reading books, magazines or audiobooks encourages curiosity and keeps your brain learning and processing new information. 

Caring for your physical and emotional health also supports your brain. Explore resources on staying active and mental well-being. 

Recognizing Alzheimer’s warning signs 

Sometimes, memory or thinking problems go beyond normal aging. Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia cause serious, progressive changes in memory, reasoning and behavior. 

Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but the following signs may suggest something more serious: 

• Trouble completing familiar tasks, such as driving to a known location or managing finances. 
• Confusion about time or place, like losing track of dates or forgetting how you arrived somewhere. 
• Problems with vision or spatial awareness not caused by eye conditions such as cataracts. 
• Changes in language, including pausing mid-conversation or repeating the same phrases often. 
• Neglecting personal hygiene or daily chores that were once routine. 
• Withdrawing from social activities you once enjoyed. 
• Personality or mood changes, such as increased irritability, fear or anxiety. 

If you notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, talk with your health care provider. Early evaluation and treatment can slow progression and improve quality of life. 

Alzheimer’s and dementia care 

A diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Banner Health, our Alzheimer’s and dementia care teams provide expert diagnosis, treatment and compassionate support for patients and families. 

Learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia care at Banner Health. 

Supporting brain health with Banner Health 

Banner Health offers a full range of resources to help you stay mentally and cognitively strong at every age. From preventive care and fitness programs to expert neurology and memory specialists, we’re here to help you live your best life as you age. 

Find a Banner Health specialist near you.