(USA Today) Two of three older adults experienced only a small amount of cognitive decline during a decade-long study, according to new research.

The findings challenge the perception mental deterioration is normal in seniors, the authors say. The study, done on 1,049 adults who initially had no dementia, was published Friday in the journal Age and Aging.

"This research is important," says Richard Jones…, "because the focus for seniors can be on living independently for as long as possible and putting less of a burden on our health-care system."

Read more.

Community: Here are some things that may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline:

Suggestions from Dr. Weil (staying mentally challenged, taking low-dose aspirin, use healing spices like turmeric in cooking, eating a diet rich in omega-3s, eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoiding polyunsaturated vegetable oils),

RealAge.com’s recommendaions (exercise—especially outdoors, not smoking, getting enough sleep (more here), keeping blood pressure within normal limits, taking classes, keeping body weight within normal limits),

Dealing with minor ailments rather than letting them pile up,

Eating a Mediterranean style diet, especially when combined with exercise, and especially aerobic exercise,

Eating carrots, beets, and asparagus,

Eating tomatoes,

Drinking coffee and tea, especially coffee,

Reducing salt in the diet if you’re inactive,

Taking a fish oil supplement,

Taking grape seed extract or drinking red wine,

Healthy living (getting enough exercise, keeping blood pressure and body weight within normal levels, and not smoking),

Keeping cholesterol within normal limits,

Getting enough vitamin B-12 and vitamin D (more here on vitamin D),

Minimizing stress,

Getting enough sleep,

Performing routine chores,

Socializing (more here),

Developing spirituality,

Spending time in green areas,

Mental agility training,

Learning a new language,

Taking huperzine A,

Using an insulin nasal spray,

Avoiding allergy medications and sleep aids containing diphenhydramine,

Moderate drinking,

Keeping weight down,

Keeping arteries clear, and

Avoiding diabetes and heart disease.

Seems like almost everyone ought to be able to find a few things they’re willing to do to maintain their cognitive ability. And fortunately, many of these same substances and activities are good for delaying or preventing diabetes and heart disease, too.

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