There is good news about your mind in retirement!

The National Institutes of Health conducted a study of people aged 70 and older.  They found that the number of people coping with some form of cognitive impairment in this group has declined from 12.2% in 1993 to 8.7% in 2002.

Why is this true? There are probably several reasons: the study cites improved treatment for stroke, heart disease and vascular conditions, as well as changes in lifestyle and the effect of those changes on cardiovascular health.  My personal opinion is that another factor is the number of people who are working longer or otherwise staying active and engaged and the number of people who are actively exercising their brain through games, puzzles, lifelong learning, and other activities.