How much do you worry about your memory slipping a bit or your risk of becoming demented? If these thoughts are ever present, you’re not alone. A recent poll from The University of Michigan’s Poll on Healthy Aging found that among those ages 50-64, there’s a lot of concern about memory lapses and susceptibility to dementia but not much conversation going on with our doctors about what we can do. While 59% of respondents said they felt their memory was slightly worse than when they were younger, only 5% said they had discussed with their doctors ways to prevent the onset of dementia. And nearly 75% of respondents said they partake in puzzles, brain games or taking vitamins and supplements as a way to keep their minds sharp. But just one reminder: there is no scientific evidence to support taking supplements as a way to prevent cognitive decline or dementia.

As for brain games? Seems like we may now have some solid scientific evidence of their value in helping support memory and cognition. Recent studies from the University of Exeter and published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry provide some valuable insights and support for playing word-based or number-based puzzles as a way to keep brains sharper. The recommendation? While you may not have the passion of Will Shortz, you should definitely schedule some puzzle time into your daily routine. And for more advice about ways to keep at bay the mental decline that may accompany aging, take a look at the recent advice of Dr. W. R. Klemm, a memory expert, and professor of neuroscience at Texas A & M, who describes ten ways to help keep your mind sharp into your older years. You can also follow his research and advice about learning and memory here.