Physical activity is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your mental and cognitive health at any age. And research consistently shows that as you get older, staying active can help to reduce your risk for dementia.

Fun fact: Reading about someone else actually activates "mirror neurons," circuits in our neurological system that may cause you to start feeling thirsty when you read about someone drinking a glass of water. "You might feel scared or anxious with the characters, by syncing up with their experience," Genova says.