The survey included approximately 1,000 U.S. adults and points to a growing public interest in preventing cognitive decline before memory problems become obvious. Scharre, medical director of Ohio State’s Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders and a professor of neurology at Ohio State College of Medicine, argues that brain health is not limited to older adults or people with a family history of dementia. According to him, the decades before conventional memory screening begins may represent an important window for reducing modifiable risks and supporting long-term cognitive performance.

One of the most consistently recommended strategies is regular physical activity. Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body and brain, supports cardiovascular health and may help regulate biological processes linked to inflammation, insulin sensitivity and vascular injury. Because conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and stroke can affect cognition, protecting the circulatory system also protects the neural networks that depend on a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients. Scharre recommends consistent exercise rather than occasional bursts of activity, emphasizing that sustainable habits are more likely to produce lasting benefits.

Sleep is another central component of the brain-health equation. During high-quality sleep, the brain cycles through processes involved in memory consolidation, emotional regulation and metabolic maintenance. Disrupted or insufficient sleep can interfere with attention and learning in the short term, while persistent sleep problems have been associated with a range of long-term neurological and cardiovascular risks. Although healthy sleep cannot guarantee protection from dementia, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and addressing conditions such as sleep apnea may help preserve the cognitive systems needed for memory and decision-making.

Diet may also influence the biological environment in which the brain operates. Scharre highlights a Mediterranean-style pattern centered on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy oils such as olive oil. This approach supplies fiber, vitamins, minerals and unsaturated fats while generally limiting highly processed foods and excessive saturated fat. Its potential benefits may arise indirectly through improved blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose control, as well as through effects on inflammation and vascular function. Researchers caution, however, that dietary patterns work as part of an overall lifestyle rather than as a single guaranteed intervention.

Social interaction and mentally stimulating activities provide another form of cognitive exercise. Conversation requires the brain to interpret language, monitor facial expressions, retrieve memories, make judgments and respond to changing social cues. Puzzles, games, music and learning a language similarly challenge attention, working memory and problem-solving. Playing an instrument, for example, can combine auditory processing, motor coordination and long-term memory. These activities may help maintain cognitive flexibility, although scientists continue to investigate how much they directly delay neurodegenerative disease rather than simply improving performance on practiced tasks.

The Ohio State report also emphasizes the value of identifying cognitive changes early. Scharre recommends that adults without a family history of memory problems begin routine screening around age 65, while people with a strong history of early cognitive decline may consider testing sooner. The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination, or SAGE, is an 11-question assessment designed to evaluate several thinking abilities, including memory, language, orientation and problem-solving. It is not a diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease, but it can provide a baseline that clinicians may compare with results collected later.

Early assessment can be particularly important as new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease become available. If a screening result raises concerns, a physician may investigate potentially reversible or treatable causes, including thyroid disorders, medication effects, depression, nutritional deficiencies or vascular injury. Additional evaluation may involve neurological examinations, blood tests or magnetic resonance imaging. Scharre warns that people often dismiss subtle memory changes and delay seeking help for years. In disorders where treatment is most effective during earlier stages, waiting until daily functioning deteriorates may reduce available options.

The SAGE test can be repeated using alternate versions six to 12 months later, reducing the likelihood that people will simply remember the answers from a previous assessment. An exact digital version has also been developed and validated by BrainTest Inc. SEZC. Scharre serves on the company’s Scientific Advisory Board and as its head of medical affairs, a relationship disclosed in the report. This connection does not invalidate the broader health recommendations, but it is relevant when evaluating information about digital access to the assessment and its commercial applications.

The survey was conducted by SSRS through its Opinion Panel Omnibus between May 14 and May 18, 2026, among 1,004 adults. Data were collected online from 974 respondents and by telephone from 30 respondents, with a reported margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. The results describe public attitudes rather than proving that any individual habit will prevent dementia. Alongside exercise, sleep, diet, social engagement and mental stimulation, Scharre advises protecting the brain from traumatic injury by wearing seatbelts and helmets and avoiding high-impact activities. His message is simple: cognitive health is shaped over decades, and the earlier people adopt protective habits, the more opportunity they may have to preserve brain function.

Subject of Research: People

Article Title: Survey shows Americans want to start brain health habits earlier

Web References:
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/brain-spine-neuro/memory-disorders
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/brain-spine-neuro/memory-disorders/sage

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References:
SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus survey, conducted May 14–18, 2026.
Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report: https://www.alz.org/getmedia/ef8f48f9-ad36-48ea-87f9-b74034635c1e/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf

Image Credits: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

Keywords: Brain; Cognitive disorders; Dementia; Neurodegenerative diseases; Alzheimer disease

Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, the founder and chief director of the Center for BrainHealth, emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing brain health in our fast-evolving society. With the understanding that every individual, from children to seniors, can take specific actions to improve their brain fitness, the center’s mission is to democratize access to vital information and resources that ultimately empower everyone to navigate the challenges of cognitive decline and optimize mental performance. The overarching goal of BrainHealth Week is to bridge the gap between public awareness and actionable strategies for brain health, transforming knowledge into practice.

Research has demonstrated that while a significant percentage of the population recognizes that the brain can improve in capacity and capability, misinformation and a lack of practical steps contribute to a substantial percentage of individuals feeling lost in their efforts to promote their cognitive well-being. Consequently, BrainHealth Week serves as a beacon for change, inviting community members to discover simple yet scientifically validated methods to enhance brain functionality and resilience. With the understanding that cognitive decline can begin as early as the 20s, promoting brain health is essential for younger generations, who can adopt preventative measures that counteract this downward trajectory.

Engagement in BrainHealth Week is amplified by the involvement of local university students who aspire to make a difference on campus. These students, labeled as BrainHealth Champions, serve as catalysts, raising awareness and fostering a culture of proactive brain health through various initiatives and engagement strategies. Direct involvement from young adults not only encourages peer learning but also cultivates a supportive environment where discussions about cognitive health can thrive. This grassroots movement within academia exemplifies how educational institutions can spearhead societal change.

A highlight of BrainHealth Week is the introduction of the innovative Brain Recharge Station, which aims to remind students of the importance of taking breaks for their mental health. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Perkins&Will, this space will encourage students to disconnect and take necessary pauses to allow their brains to rest and rejuvenate. The unveiling of this station symbolizes a commitment to embedding mental health into the fabric of student life and academic environments.

In addition to practical tools and resources, BrainHealth Week will feature two pivotal conferences focusing on the intersection of science and application. The first, “Empowering Women Through Brain Health,” will host an array of experts discussing the latest research findings that unveil critical insights into women’s brain health across various stages of life. This promising initiative seeks to address the knowledge gaps surrounding female cognition, reproductive health, and the impact of lifestyle on mental performance.

Following this enlightening conference will be the “Accelerate! Breakthroughs in Brain Performance” event, which convenes changemakers across multiple sectors to explore how neuroscience principles can enhance peak performance. Thought leaders from various fields will present findings that explore the intersection of cognitive science and practical implementation. By fostering dialogue among innovators and visionaries, the center hopes to inspire creative solutions that leverage scientific advancements for improved brain performance in diverse environments such as sports, academic settings, and professional industries.

Art and creativity also play a crucial role in BrainHealth Week, as two major public events will explore how artistic practices can contribute to enhanced mental well-being. These exhibitions serve to connect community members with the deeper dimensions of cognitive health while celebrating local artists and their contributions to society. One such event will invite individuals to participate in a unique experience at a museum, combining networking opportunities with artistic creativity, reinforcing the prevalent notion that art promotes cognitive benefits and emotional resilience.

For families, BrainHealth Week culminates in the Family Fair, an engaging event filled with activities designed specifically for children and parents. This part of the week celebrates the fun aspects of cognitive development and promotes learning through interactive play, all while reinforcing the importance of mental health from an early age. With hands-on activities like a brain-themed treasure hunt, storytelling, and even a dance exploration session, families will leave with new tools and shared memories that highlight the significance of brain health.

A unique offering during BrainHealth Week is the Great Brain Gain Sleep Text Challenge, which aims to inform individuals about the importance of sleep hygiene for cognitive health. Partnering with renowned sleep expert Dr. Matt Walker, this initiative encourages participants to receive daily tips on improving their sleep quality, recognizing that restorative sleep supports overall brain function and resilience. The accessibility of this challenge allows individuals from all walks of life to engage with their brain health proactively.

Ultimately, the Center for BrainHealth’s initiatives represent a transformative approach to cognitive wellness, offering scientifically informed strategies that empower individuals throughout their lives. The recognition that high-quality brain health education can lead to informed lifestyle choices creates a ripple effect, contributing to healthier communities overall. With a multifaceted approach that intertwines research, practical application, and community engagement, BrainHealth Week cultivates a culture that values and prioritizes the mental health of every individual.

Through collaborative efforts between researchers, community members, and local leaders, initiatives like BrainHealth Week are setting the stage for a new paradigm in which brain health takes center stage across various aspects of life. The commitment to enhancing cognitive health at the individual and community level may very well define the future landscape of public health, empowering citizens to embrace their brain’s potential and thrive well into old age.

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