Good news: Nearly everybody agrees that brains are important.

A recent survey by AARP finds that 98 percent of those over 40 believe that maintaining or improving brain health is somewhat or very important. The other 2 percent presumably believe that healthy brains are for nerds.

The bad news is that a large portion of those surveyed are not doing what is necessary to preserve or enhance their brains. What should they be doing? Exercising, eating healthy, reading, and socializing with friends and family.

It’s not that people are unaware of how to stay sharp. Over 95 percent of respondents identified all of the above activities as important to maintaining a healthy brain. But just like any other area of health, knowing what’s good for you and doing what’s good for you are two very different things.

Among the survey findings:

Only 64 percent regularly read.
Only 59 percent get enough sleep.
Only 56 percent regularly exercise.
Only 56 percent report a healthy diet.
Only 43 percent believe they are doing enough to manage stress.

The AARP report also voiced concerns about a major misconception expressed by three-quarters of survey respondents: That vitamins and supplements improve cognitive health. In April, a study co-sponsored by AARP and conducted by the Institute of Medicine found no evidence that that was the case.

“This new survey is showing that there are big gaps between what people think is important for their brains and what they are actually doing to maintain their brain health,” said Sarah Lenz Lock, AARP senior vice president of policy, research and international affairs.

In the April report, a number of medications were also found to be linked to cognitive decline. Although the correlations weren’t overwhelming, the study warned seniors to watch their consumption of strong anticholinergic drugs, such as Benadryl, as well as benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium.

Many told the pollsters that they have noticed their own brain decline. Nearly 40 percent reported that they are having more trouble remembering things than before. Indeed, only 61 percent rated their brain health as excellent or very good, which is nevertheless much higher than the 43 percent who assessed their overall physical health as very good or excellent.

Instant Insights /

Seniors not doing enough to maintain cognitive health

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