As we step into 2025, focusing on your overall health and wellness is more important than ever. While most of us know the importance of maintaining a healthy body, we often overlook the vital role our brain plays in overall well-being.
To keep your brain in top shape, it’s essential to have a conversation with your doctor about brain health. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has outlined 12 key factors that influence brain health, and discussing these with your physician can help you take proactive steps to protect your brain throughout life.
Here are 12 must-ask questions that can supercharge your brain health in 2025, according to the AAN’s article Emerging Issues in Neurology:
1. Are you able to get sufficient sleep to feel rested?
Sleep is crucial for brain function and overall health. Inadequate sleep can impair memory, mood, and cognitive function. Ask your doctor if you’re getting enough quality sleep and if you need advice on improving your sleep habits.
2. Do you have concerns about your mood, anxiety, or stress?
Mental health directly impacts brain health. Stress, anxiety, and mood disorders can affect brain function over time. Talking to your doctor about any mental health concerns can help you find effective ways to manage them.
3. Do you have concerns about getting enough or healthy enough food, or have any questions about supplements or vitamins?
What you eat plays a significant role in brain health. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports cognitive function. Ask your doctor about foods or supplements that could benefit your brain and whether you might be lacking any essential vitamins.
4. Do you find ways to fit physical exercise into your life?
Regular physical exercise not only strengthens your body but also enhances brain health by improving blood flow and stimulating the growth of brain cells. Ask your doctor for personalized recommendations on exercises that will benefit your brain.
5. Do you have regular contact with close friends or family, and do you have enough support from people?
Social interactions play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive function. Strong relationships and regular social engagement can protect against cognitive decline. Discuss with your doctor how to maintain meaningful connections in your life.
6. Do you wear seatbelts and helmets, and use car seats for children?
Preventing physical trauma is a key factor in protecting your brain. Ask your doctor for guidance on safety measures to reduce the risk of head injuries, such as wearing helmets and seatbelts.
7. Have you had problems with high blood pressure, or do you have any concerns about blood pressure treatment or getting a blood pressure cuff at home?
High blood pressure can negatively impact brain health, increasing the risk of stroke and cognitive decline. Discuss with your doctor ways to monitor and control your blood pressure.
8. Do you have trouble controlling blood sugar or cholesterol? Is there a neurological disease that runs in your family?
Metabolic factors like blood sugar and cholesterol levels can affect brain health. If you have a family history of neurological diseases, it’s important to discuss genetic risks and preventive measures with your doctor.
9. Do you have any trouble with the cost of your medicines?
Medication adherence is essential for brain health. If you’re facing financial challenges in accessing medications, talk to your doctor about affordable alternatives or programs that can help.
10. Are you up to date on vaccines, and do you have enough information about those vaccines?
Vaccines protect against infections that could harm your brain. Ask your doctor if you’re current on vaccines and whether any updates are necessary to safeguard your brain health.
11. Do you smoke, drink more than one to two drinks per day, or use nonprescription drugs?
Substance use can have a harmful effect on brain health. Discuss your lifestyle habits with your doctor and ask for guidance on reducing or eliminating substances that could negatively impact your brain.
12. Do you have concerns about keeping housing, having transportation, having access to care and medical insurance, or being physically or emotionally safe from harm?
Social determinants of health—such as access to stable housing, healthcare, and transportation—can affect brain health. If you’re facing challenges in these areas, talk to your doctor about available resources to ensure you’re living in a safe, supportive environment.
Conclusion
By asking these 12 questions, you’ll be taking a proactive approach to safeguarding your brain health in 2025. Your neurologist or primary care physician is your ally in maintaining brain function, and by discussing these factors, you can work together to develop a personalized plan for optimal brain health throughout life.
