Research has shown that the more education you receive, the better your mental acuity—and the longer you will retain it. Take a class on a topic that challenges your thought processes rather than something with which you’re already familiar. Most community colleges and universities offer continuing education classes on a wide variety of subjects, and many sessions are held at night to accommodate people who work during the day. Choose a challenging but interesting subject, some- thing that forces you to think or that flexes brain cells you haven’t used for eons.
If you are planning a trip to a museum, study the topic of the exhibit you are going to see ahead of time. For example, if you’ll be visiting an art museum, brush up on art history and learn about the artists and the eras. See how much you can memorize, and then use your knowledge to enhance the experience. You can also do this process for stargazing, attending classical music concerts, opera, theater, and so on. Give it a try when going to a basketball game or skiing. You’ll stimulate your brain (and maybe impress your friends).