Pose mental challenges to stave off Alzheimer's

Q: What, if anything, can we older folks do to help prevent Alzheimer's disease?
A: At this time, I do not believe there is a sure preventative method against Alzheimer's, but certainly a great deal of research is being done. I have read about certain medications that have been developed, and your physician could certainly give you information about them. As for my personal recommendation, as always it is to be as mentally active as possible.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a loss of mental ability. Inasmuch as mental activity makes the brain grow and change, the chances would seem to be that an increase in mental activities is called for. As usual, I suggest all kinds of mental challenges, especially new ones. Check out your newspaper and your favorite bookstore for puzzles and problems that attract your interest. Don't try to begin at too difficult a level, of course. You might well become discouraged, and at this point it is imperative that you start building your confidence.
Older adults often feel vulnerable and insecure if they believe that their memory and/or other mental abilities are not as sharp as they once were. Unfortunately, the more apprehension one feels, the more likely it is that problems with mental ability will become worse. Building confidence by working on mental activities usually relieves the insecurity and results in improved mental ability.
Working on becoming increasingly aware is also an important part of improving mental fitness. Pay close attention to details around you.
Utilize a technique called sensory observation, which involves using all five of your senses when you observe any particular object. A typical example is the observation of a paper clip--use sight, touch, hearing, smell and taste. (You may want to avoid tasting it!) Write a list of at least fifteen things that you can observe. For example, it is silver, smooth and shiny. Any information concerning the use of a paper clip is not a valid part of this exercise.
Try this also with certain food items--a pretzel stick, or a glass of sparkling water, perhaps. Time consuming? Yes, but if you are worried about your mental situation, this is an activity that can be of great value. The time spent concentrating on your surroundings and details of objects you come in contact with, is very valuable time indeed.
Learning something completely new can also help brain growth. Do you have a yen to learn a new language, or investigate a particular era in history, or some other favorite subject? Check on the possible availability of classes. There are so many, in adult schools, senior centers, and other institutions.
The interaction with other students would also be valuable. Social contacts are essential for older adults. Studies indicate that those who are alone and do not spend time with others do not live as long as those who are more social.
In review, my advice to anyone trying to avoid Alzheimer's is to be more aware, by using sensory observation, increase mental activity, and interact with others.