Brain Health 

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Six things that boost your brain power and help your whole body:

1. Challenge Yourself
   Read, do puzzles, take a course, learn an instrument and keep up with your hobbies.
   
   
2. Be Socially Active
   Maintain old friendships and make new ones. Stay socially active through work, volunteer activities, travel, hobbies, family and friends. Be open to new experiences.
   
   
3. Make Healthy Food Choices
   Choose appropriate portion sizes, eating healthy snacks, and drinking plenty of water. Plan meals in advance so that you don't leave healthy eating to chance.
   
   
4. Be Physically Active 
   Even moderate physical activity promotes the circulation of blood to the brain, which nourishes the cells with nutrients and oxygen, and may even encourage the development of new cells.
   
   
5. Reduce Stress
   Stress causes your body to release chemicals that are damaging to the brain and other cells in your body when it persists over time. Stress can cause vascular changes and chemical imbalances that impact the brain. Meditation, deep breathing, massage and physical exercise are examples of stress reduction techniques that are effective for many people.
   
   
6. Protect Your Head 
   Protect against concussions by wearing an approved helmet when engaging in sporting activities such as skating, skiing, skateboarding, rollerblading and cycling. Drive safely and always wear a seatbelt. 
   

(source: Alzheimer Society)

Learn more about keeping your brain healthy

Know the five warning signs of a stroke!

Stroke is a medical emergency.

Recognizing and responding immediately to the warning signs of stroke by calling 9-1-1 or your local emergency number can significantly improve survival and recovery.

Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache.
Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.

Learn more about warning signs of a stroke