Health experts outline habits for brain health and physical autonomy

Experts emphasize that maintaining brain health and physical autonomy is essential for healthy aging, particularly as individuals pass age 50. Behavioral neurologist Dean Sherzai identifies three key habits to avoid to protect cognitive function: smoking, which damages blood vessels supplying the brain; excessive alcohol consumption, which increases the risk of cognitive decline; and a sedentary lifestyle.

To counteract physical decline such as sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), sports medicine physician Carlos Ulloa recommends a diversified exercise program. This includes aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling to improve cardiovascular efficiency, and strength training to preserve the ability to perform daily tasks such as climbing stairs or carrying groceries. The World Health Organization recommends between 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.