Can’t remember where you left your car keys? Having a hard time concentrating at work? New research shows there are ways to increase mental clarity as we age. More and more Americans are living longer and the ability to stay sharp as we age will continue to be a concern.

According to the Geriatric Mental Health Alliance of New York City, during the next 25 years all people 65 years and older will increase from 35 million to 70 million people. With this aging comes the desire to have enhanced mental health skills. A recent US News article listed American’s top brainiest cities based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, and Bureau of Labor Statists. The data suggested diet, physical fitness, and social well being were the main reasons why Washington DC topped the list as the brainiest city in America.

You Are What You Eat.

A Harvard School of Public Health report explains that Omega 3 fats have been found to have a positive effect on brain health by building brain cell membranes. Human bodies can’t make Omega 3 fats, but it is found in foods such as walnuts, salmon, soybeans and flax seed oil. There are no recommended daily allowance guidelines for omega 3 fats, but due to increasing awareness of its benefits on brain health, the Global Organization for EPA and DHA is working on filing a petition to the US Institute of Medicine to establish an RDA.

You Are How You Exercise.

Any form of physical activity is beneficial for brain health. Exercise increases brain flow to the brain and can create new cells. The Alzheimer’s Prevention Foundation of America recommends:

• Develop a regular exercise program of 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week.
• Exercise aerobically by walking, cycling, or jogging.
• Include strength training.

81 year old Texas multi billionaire T Boone Pickens, who has recently participated in a study on brain health, has a rigorous exercise routine to stay brain healthy. Pickens' workout routine includes 20 minutes cardio strength training daily. He also regularly spends time with friends, family and continues to work to stay sharp.

You Are Who You Spend Time With.

Spending time with friends, meeting new people, and volunteer work are ways to keep the brain fit. A recent Rasmussen telephone survey found that 65% of those surveyed eat with their families 2 times per week. This simple act has been showed to improve mental health.

Big Business Buys Into Brain Building.

In addition to physical fitness, playing video games, learning a new language or playing an instrument also helps the brain. Brain gyms such as Nifty after Fifty, mental fitness software, and brain classes are a growing trend. Marketers are capitalizing on the desire to keep mentally sharp and clear. Sharp Brains Inc, a company that reviews brain fitness software, will host Sharp Brains Summit in January 2010; the summit will feature emerging research tools and best practices for cognitive health.