It’s important to keep your brain healthy and active. Studies show that constant activity, especially in the form of learning something new, reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some easy ways to keep your brain “forever young:”

1. Never stop learning

The first part of your life is spent consistently learning and building synapses in your brain, which improves cognitive function. Scientists call that “cognitive reserve.” Continuing to learn new things builds and maintains these connections.

2. Strain your brain

Learning by watching a TV documentary is one way to accomplish the bullet point above, but it doesn’t provide much cognitive challenge. Try more difficult, challenging tasks like learning a new language or taking a cooking class.

3. Step out of your comfort zone

As you age, you tend to settle in your ways and develop a daily routine. Try to switch it up a bit; this challenges your mental skills. Travel to a new city, or try to navigate to your favorite restaurant by taking an unfamiliar route and not using a map.

4. Be social

You don’t have to be a social butterfly, but don’t isolate yourself either. Aging researchers have discovered that communicating with others helps keep those synapses strong. Try joining a club or volunteer somewhere where you have to interact with new people.