If you can still do these 8 things in your 80s, your brain is aging better than most

Aging is a fact of life, but the way our brains age? That's a choice.

We can't control every wrinkle or gray hair, but the good news is we can influence how our minds hold up as we get older.

Sure, there's no fountain of youth or magic pill, but there are certain indicators that can tell if your brain is aging like a fine wine or spoiling like old milk.

In this article, I'm going to share with you 8 things you should still be able to do in your 80s. If you can, congratulations! Your brain is aging better than most. So, let’s dive in and see if you’re on track for a sharp and healthy mind in your golden years.

1) Memory recall

One of the most common fears about aging is memory loss. But did you know that a healthy brain in its 80s should still be able to recall facts, names, and events fairly well?

Sure, we all have those 'senior moments' every now and then. But if you're frequently forgetting things, it might be a red flag.

Conversely, if you can still remember what you had for breakfast yesterday or recall the name of your childhood best friend, that's a good sign.

It means your brain's ability to retrieve information is still in good shape. And in the game of aging, that's a win. So, keep exercising your memory muscles because they're key in keeping your brain youthful and vibrant.

2) Multitasking

When I was younger, I used to pride myself on my ability to juggle multiple tasks at once. Cooking dinner while helping the kids with their homework, and maybe checking my emails on the side - it was all in a day's work.

As I've gotten older, I've noticed that multitasking can be a bit more challenging. But keeping up with it is crucial.

The ability to handle more than one task at a time is a clear sign of cognitive agility. If, in your 80s, you can still manage to watch your favorite TV show while knitting or reading the newspaper while sipping your morning coffee, your brain is doing a fantastic job at staying young.

Remember, it's not about being perfect. It's about keeping those cognitive wheels turning. Trust me, your brain will thank you for it!

3) Problem-solving

In our day-to-day lives, we’re constantly faced with problems. Some are as simple as figuring out the fastest route to work during rush hour, others can be more complex, like how to fix a broken appliance.

Our ability to solve these problems effectively is a testament to our cognitive health. The brain's problem-solving abilities largely depend on the prefrontal cortex, an area that controls complex cognitive skills.

Interestingly, a study showed that older adults who regularly engage in problem-solving activities have a 63% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

So, if you're in your 80s and still solving crossword puzzles or strategizing in chess games with ease, you're giving your brain a much-needed workout and helping it stay young.

4) Learning new things

Aging doesn't mean you should stop learning. In fact, it's the opposite. The ability to learn new things is a clear sign of mental agility.

Whether it's taking up a new hobby, learning a foreign language, or even mastering a new recipe, your willingness and ability to learn new skills can help keep your brain sharp.

Remember, every time we learn something new, we create new connections between our neurons. This process is called neuroplasticity and it's vital for maintaining a healthy brain.

So, if you're in your 80s and still curious about the world around you, eagerly adopting new skills and knowledge, your brain is certainly aging well. Keep it up!

5) Emotional resilience

Life isn't always easy. We all know that. But it's how we handle the ups and downs that really counts.

Emotional resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, is a clear sign of a healthy mind. It shows that our brains are capable of processing emotions, adapting to change, and recovering from stress or trauma.

In your 80s, life may throw a few more curveballs your way. Health challenges, the loss of loved ones, or changes in your lifestyle can be tough to handle.

But if you're able to navigate these challenges with hope and perseverance, it shows that your brain is not only strong but also beautifully resilient. And that's something truly worth celebrating.

6) Maintaining a sense of humor

I remember my grandmother used to say, "A day without laughter is a day wasted." She lived until the ripe age of 95, with a mind as sharp as a tack.

Laughter, she believed, was the best medicine. And science seems to agree. Laughter stimulates regions of the brain that use the 'feel good' chemical messenger dopamine, which also plays a key role in memory and learning.

In your 80s, if you can still crack a joke, appreciate a good pun, or laugh at a funny movie, it's not only evidence of your fantastic sense of humor but also an indication of your brain's health.

So let's keep laughing because it truly does keep us young at heart and mind.

7) Staying socially active

We humans are social creatures. We thrive on interaction and connection. And this doesn't change as we get older.

In fact, staying socially active in your 80s is a positive sign of cognitive health. Regular interaction with friends and family, participating in community activities, or simply having a chat with your neighbor can do wonders for your brain.

Research shows that social engagement is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia. It keeps our minds sharp and our spirits high.

So if you're still enjoying the company of others, engaging in lively conversations, or participating in social activities, it's safe to say your brain is aging like a champ!

8) Keeping a positive mindset

At the end of the day, it all comes down to attitude. Keeping a positive mindset can do wonders for your brain health.

A study found that individuals who are positive and optimistic are 50% less likely to develop dementia. This is largely because a positive mindset reduces stress and anxiety, which are known to damage brain health.

So if you're in your 80s and still believe the best is yet to come, your brain is not just aging well - it's thriving. And that's the best gift you can give yourself.