Keep Your Wits About You: The Science of Brain Maintenance as You Age

by Vonetta M. Dotson

A practical guide to maintaining a healthy brain for readers of any age, but particularly those in midlife and older.
This book offers scientifically-based information on living a brain-healthy lifestyle. While there is no cure for Alzheimer's and other degenerative brain diseases that cause dementia, research shows that you can reduce your risk for dementia and improve your memory and other cognitive abilities by adopting certain healthy behaviors.
Through exercising, keeping your mind active, staying socially connected, and eating well, you can directly improve your brain health and thus benefit your memory, cognitive abilities such as attention and multitasking, and even your mood.
Neuropsychologist and gerontologist Vonetta M. Dotson summarizes the science behind brain health and offers behavioral strategies for improving it, such as targeted exercise, social engagement, and cognitive training. Each chapter presents the research behind a given strategy and practical guidance on how to incorporate healthy behaviors into daily life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help

225 pages, Paperback

Published March 8, 2022

Reviews

[Bharath · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have already read a few books on brain health and hence the new content for me was minimal. That said, if you are new to the topic this is an excellent book to start with – it is straightforward, practical, honest with proven advice which will work. Vonetta is a neuropsychologist, and this book does cover the distinction among various brain health disciplines.

Most of us know now about how maintaining brain health depends on physical activity, mental activity, diet, sleep & social connections. The impact of mood on brain health was something this book covered more than many others. While there may be rare genetic factors, brain health is largely in our hands. There are various options under each of the heads – structured physical activity can be aerobics, walking, running, yoga or even gardening or many other activities. The food advice includes limiting meat, sugar, fat, and veering to a Mediterranean style diet with plants, seeds, nuts. Thankfully, most foods good for the heart are also good for the brain. The neural pathways need simulation and that comes with learning & doing something new and not so easy. She warns that most games purporting to improve brain fitness are unproven – they are often too quick & easy to leave a lasting impact.

Overall, a good book, packed with a lot of sensible information. If you want more detailed information on foods & sleep, I recommend the excellent books – Brain Food: The Surprising Science of Eating for Cognitive Power and Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams.

My rating: 4.25 / 5.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a free electronic review copy.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Dotson tells us what we already know that we need to be mindful of our diet (Dash, Mediterranean, and MIND are the winners), exercise, get a good night's sleep, and socialize to keep on top of our game for as long as we can. Her advice is to concentrate on a few of of her suggestions and gradually build up to addressing all of the areas. Helpful book.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Keep Your Wits About You" by Vonetta M. Dotson is an indispensable guide to maintaining a vibrant and resilient brain. Dotson, a distinguished neuropsychologist and gerontologist, provides a comprehensive and scientifically-grounded roadmap for cultivating a brain-healthy lifestyle. Through a blend of accessible explanations and actionable advice, she unveils the compelling link between our behaviors and cognitive well-being.

I really enjoyed Dotson's pragmatic approach; she ingeniously conveys the scientific underpinnings behind each brain-boosting strategy, from tailored exercise routines to fostering social connections. Dotson systematically illustrates how activities as varied as mental engagement, physical fitness, and maintaining an enriching social life are pivotal to a robust cognitive future.

Overall, this book is a wonderful foundational guide for anyone interested in the science of brain health and longevity.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short informative book that covers the basics such as the importance of exercise, healthy eating, sleep, social connections, lifelong learning etc.
Perhaps not too much new information, but I appreciated the explanation of the various kinds of scientific studies and also the results of some of those studies. Lots of references for further reading.

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book for the general reader about how to care for your brain as one ages. It presents six principles which are pretty well known: physical activity, mental stimulation, social interaction, diet, sleep, and addressing physical/mental health issues. The little bit of promotion for her business, CerebroFit, wasn't really necessary.

[Mrs C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of anecdotes and information that reader can pick up and apply right away. This is a kind of book that is not too technical, but has essential info that is always good to know for yourself or to share with others.

Review copy provided by the publisher.

[Frank Duke · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rather simplistic book about a most serious subject. I found nothing new in it.

[Sharon Buxton · Rating 4 out of 5]

B+. nonfiction, memory; offers information and suggestions to prevent and/or slow down memory loss; from stash, keep

[Trevor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding book, filled with lots of helpful information. This is a great guide to get your brain healthy, or continue on your journey towards a healthy brain.

[Hana Gabrielle (HG) Bidon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great start to preserving your health overall and gives practical tips to stay in shape no matter your age. It's written well and is easy to understand for all types of people. Give this book a go and I'll guarantee you will learn something out of it.

[Debbie Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book although I think we all intuitively know what we need to do to live a long and brain healthy life. Getting it done is the hardest part!

My biggest takeaway is that it is important to maintain physical strength, mental health, social interaction, good nutrition, and strong sleep habits in EVERY decade of your life for long term healthy brain function and to ward off dementia. It is never too late to start and benefit from healthy habits. It encourages you to brainstorm your barriers to success and find solutions that make it easier, more fun and more social.

Lists of additional reading and online resources at the end of each chapter makes this an easy and informative read.