Life
Five Evidence-Based Ways to Boost Memory and Improve Your Brain Health
2 min. read
Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care
Staying mentally sharp as we age is a top priority for many people. But if you’re an older adult, you’ve no doubt experienced more than a few “What Did I Come in Here to Do?” moments when you enter a room with the clear intention of doing something… and you suddenly can’t remember what it was.
Is this just a normal part of aging or is it something you should be worried about?
According to an expert with Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, science shows that certain lifestyle choices can boost brain health, improve memory and lower the risk of dementia.
“Cognitive decline is not inevitable,” says G. Peter Gliebus, M.D., chief of neurology and director of cognitive and behavioral neurology at Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health, at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. “By making simple lifestyle changes, people can protect their brains and even improve cognitive performance.”
Five Memory-Boosting Strategies
According to Dr. Gliebus, there are five proven strategies you can start today to boost your memory and improve your brain health:
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Aerobic Exercise: Move for a Sharper Mind
Regular aerobic activity—like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming—has been linked to better memory, improved focus, and reduced dementia risk.
Dr. Gliebus explains, “Even 30 minutes of moderate activity, five times a week, can make a measurable difference in cognitive health.” -
The MIND Diet: Eat to Improve Memory
The MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) is designed to support brain health. It emphasizes leafy greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, fish, and olive oil—foods shown to slow cognitive decline.
“Nutrition is medicine for the brain,” says Dr. Gliebus. “Small changes, like swapping butter for olive oil or adding an extra serving of leafy greens, can protect memory in the long run.” -
Cognitive Training: Keep Learning, Keep Growing
Challenging the brain through structured activities or learning new skills—like a language, instrument, or puzzles—helps strengthen memory and problem-solving skills. Studies show that cognitive training can slow memory decline, even in individuals at risk for mild cognitive impairment.
“Lifelong learning is one of the best ways to keep your brain resilient,” Dr. Gliebus emphasizes. -
Sleep Optimization: Reset Your Brain Nightly
Sleep is when the brain consolidates memories and performs essential repair. Adults should aim for 7–9 hours of restful sleep per night. Addressing conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea is also vital for long-term brain function.
“Think of sleep as your brain’s reset button,” explains Dr. Gliebus. “Protecting your sleep is protecting your memory.” -
Social Engagement: Stay Connected to Stay Sharp
Staying socially active through volunteering, music, group exercise, or dance is one of the best ways to protect memory and prevent cognitive decline.
Dr. Gliebus notes that “Social engagement combines three protective elements—cognitive, physical and emotional activity. It’s a triple win for the brain.”
The Bottom Line: Everyday Choices Shape Brain Health
Improving memory and cognitive function doesn’t require supplements or miracle cures. Instead, the keys to a healthier brain are found in daily habits: moving your body, eating smart, challenging your mind, getting restorative sleep and staying socially active.
“By adopting these simple habits, people can take control of their cognitive health and enjoy sharper thinking well into the future,” assures Dr. Gliebus.
Featured Provider
Gediminas Gliebus, MD
G. Peter Gliebus, M.D., is a board-certified neurologist, chief of neurology and director of cognitive and behavioral neurology at Marcus Neuroscience Institute, a part of Baptist Health. He is fluent in English and Lithuanian.
Dr. Gliebus has a subspecialty certification in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry, and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and diseases involving the central and peripheral nervous system. His clinical interests include Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative dementias as well as cognitive problems associated with stroke and similar conditions.
Prior to joining Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Gliebus served as academic chair of the Department of Neurology at Drexel University College of Medicine, chief of neurology and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Disorder Center at Crozer Keystone Healthcare System, as well as chair of neurology at Global Neurosciences Institute.
Dr. Gliebus earned his medical degree at the Faculty of Medicine of Vilnius University in Lithuania. He completed a neurology residency at Drexel University College of Medicine, serving as chief resident. He also completed a behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry fellowship at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
For several consecutive years, Dr. Gliebus has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. Physicians receiving this peer-nominated honor are best-in-class healthcare providers, embodying excellence in clinical care as well as interpersonal skills.
Through his years of experience, Dr. Gliebus has developed a comprehensive understanding of the challenges that individuals and their families face when dealing with cognitive disorders. He provides compassionate, personalized care to patients, ensuring accurate diagnosis, effective treatment plans and ongoing support throughout their journey. By staying up to date with the latest advancements in the field, he offers the most comprehensive and innovative approaches to improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive disorders.
Dr. Gliebus is committed to advancing medical knowledge and finding innovative solutions to complex healthcare challenges. He is the principal investigator for several clinical trials related to memory disorders and dementia. During his involvement in Alzheimer's disease treatment trials, he witnessed firsthand the positive impact that a newly approved medication group had on patients and families.
Dr. Gliebus is credited with more than 60 publications and presentations, is an editorial reviewer for various national specialty journals and editor of the book entitled Progressive Cognitive Impairment and Its Neuropathologic Correlates.
As an educator, Dr. Gliebus shares his wisdom with medical students. He finds that the opportunity to teach and mentor others deepens his knowledge and empowers future generations of healthcare professionals. Dr. Gliebus is a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and member of the Society for Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology and the Alzheimer’s Association.
He likes to be active during his free time, engaging in physical activities such as running, hiking and other sports. He enjoys exploring new destinations, tasting exotic cuisines and learning about the history and culture of the places he visits. He is also an avid reader, favoring intriguing mysteries and history books.
