- Many older people have some memory decline as they age.
- A large study followed many older adults for years.
- Being overweight can make memory and thinking decline faster.
- The researchers measured people’s weight over time.
- They tested memory, attention and planning skills in people.
- The effect was stronger in the oldest adults in the study.
- Body health problems may harm thinking and memory.
- Managing weight can slow down some thinking problems.
- Keeping a healthy weight helps brain health as you age.
Difficult words
- decline — a slow loss or drop in ability
- overweight — having too much body weight
- researcher — a person who studies something scientificallyresearchers
- attention — the act of watching or thinking about something
- planning — making a plan for future actions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you try to keep a healthy weight?
- Which is easier for you: memory, attention, or planning?
- Have you noticed memory change as people get older?
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