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Brain can keep improving even in your 90s, study finds: Simple daily habits that boost memory and brain health

A new study reveals the brain can stay sharp and continue improving even in your 90s with simple daily habits that support memory and overall brain health.

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Written By: Muskan Gupta | Published : June 24, 2026 11:14 PM IST

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Brain health (Image AI Generated)

A lot of people think of memory loss as being an unfortunate consequence of getting older, and that the brain loses its functionality as well. However, a new study has challenged this common belief and revealed some encouraging news, the human brain can continue improving even into the 90s.

The study was conducted by researchers at the Center for Brain Health at The University of Texas at Dallas. It was published in the journal Scientific Reports, a journal of the Nature research group. Nearly 4,000 adults, ages 19 to 94 years, have been followed for three years to learn about changes in brain health over time.

Study tracked nearly 4,000 adults

The study involved 3,966 people who engaged in brief brain-training exercises, intended to be completed one to five minutes a day. The method of measurement used by scientists was known as the Brain Health Index (BHI). This index measures various facets of brain health: clarity of thinking, emotional balance, and social connectedness.

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Brain performance improved in older adults

Researchers were surprised at the results. Whereas, many participants actually had their brain performance enhance as the years went on. Improved cognitive function could be observed in adults even in their 80 and 90 years. The research implies that the brain is malleable and able to develop over the lifespan.

They also discovered that those who began with lower Brain Health scores saw the most improvements. This demonstrates that the brain is very malleable and flexible, it can alter and reinforce itself, which is known as neuroplasticity, according to the study authors.

Healthy daily habits support brain function

Generally our other results indicated that improvement was not strongly related to age, gender, or education level. Rather, the most critical determinant of healthy brain function was regular participation in healthy brain activities. In simple terms, it was people who did these 'Brain Friendly' habits regularly who got the best results.

Beyond earlier findings that diet plays a role in mental wellbeing and physical fitness, the study identifies a series of simple daily routines that can aid to maintain a healthy brain. They entail good sleep, socializing, stress management, new learning, exercise and mental stimulation (reading, puzzles, strategy games).

Experts say all brains can continue to grow

Senior author Sandra Bond Chapman also pointed out that the brain should be judged by ability, not age. Their results help to remind you to take care of your brain well before any changes in your memory.

The researchers observed that the majority of participants in the study were white, female and college educated; however, they do believe the results had strong evidence that cognitive decline was not inevitable. Future studies are needed with more diversified populations to bolster these future conclusions.

Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.

Muskan Gupta

Muskan Gupta

Muskan Gupta is a passionate lifestyle and health journalist with over 4 years of experience. She has worked with leading media organisations like ANI and India TV. Currently employed at TheHealthSite.com under Zee Media, she brings stories to life and covers ... Read More