12 Questions to Ask Your Doctor for Better Brain Health
Taking care of your brain health is more
important than ever. With over 3 billion people worldwide affected by
neurological conditions, experts are shifting their focus toward
prevention. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has introduced a
groundbreaking initiative called the “SAFEST BRAINS” framework. Detailed
in the January 2025 issue of Neurology, this approach offers a
comprehensive guide to maintaining cognitive health throughout life.
The framework focuses on 12 key areas, each
tied to a specific question designed to help doctors and patients work
together to protect brain health. These questions aren’t just
checkboxes—they’re tools to spark meaningful conversations about
lifestyle, habits, and risks that could impact your brain over time.
Let’s break them down.
1. Are you getting enough sleep?
1. Are you getting enough sleep?
Sleep quality often reveals critical
insights into brain health. Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can
negatively impact memory, mood, and pain tolerance. Experts point out
that sleep disorders are linked to an increased risk of neurological
issues, including dementia. Discussing your sleep patterns with your
doctor can help identify potential problems and find solutions to
improve your rest.
2. Are you concerned about your mood, anxiety,
or stress?
Mental health plays a pivotal role in overall well-being. Mood disorders
like depression and anxiety are not just emotional concerns—they’re
also tied to neurological conditions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or
noticing changes in your mood, bringing it up during a doctor’s visit
can lead to strategies for better emotional and cognitive health.
3. Do you have questions about your diet or supplements?
Nutrition is another cornerstone of brain health. Poor dietary habits or
food insecurity can increase the likelihood of neurological disorders.
Your doctor can guide you on creating a balanced diet rich in
brain-boosting nutrients and address any questions about supplements or
vitamins.
4. Are you staying physically active?
Exercise is a well-documented way to
support brain health. Physical activity encourages the growth of new
brain cells and reduces inflammation. Despite these benefits, many
people struggle to stay active. Whether it’s through walking, yoga, or
more vigorous workouts, finding ways to incorporate movement into your
routine can pay off significantly.
5. Do you maintain regular contact with
friends and family?
Social interaction can profoundly influence cognitive function. Studies
show that strong social networks can help reduce the risk of dementia
and slow cognitive decline. Sharing time with loved ones or
participating in community activities provides emotional support and
mental stimulation.
6. Do you use safety measures like seatbelts and helmets?
Safety precautions like wearing seatbelts and helmets can prevent
traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which are a major cause of neurological
damage. Simple habits like these protect your brain from harm and are
an essential part of overall health maintenance.
7. Have you had issues with high blood pressure?
Blood pressure management is critical for brain health. Hypertension can
damage the brain’s blood vessels, reducing its ability to clear toxins.
Regularly monitoring and controlling your blood pressure can help
prevent long-term cognitive problems.
8. Are you managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels?
Metabolic health—including blood sugar and
cholesterol levels—directly impacts your brain’s well-being.
Uncontrolled diabetes or high cholesterol increases the risk of stroke
and other neurological complications. Addressing these factors with your
doctor can help mitigate risks.
9. Are medication costs a concern for you?
Healthcare affordability is a major issue
for many patients. Rising costs of neurological treatments and
medications can deter people from seeking the care they need. Discussing
these challenges with your doctor can open doors to assistance programs
or more affordable options.
10. Are you up to date on vaccinations?
Infections can have a lasting impact on
brain health. Staying current on vaccines like MMR, COVID-19, and
shingles can help protect you from illnesses that might harm your
cognitive function. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, your
doctor can guide you.
11. Do you have concerns about housing, transportation, or access to
care?
Social and structural factors play a crucial role in brain health. If
you’re worried about housing stability, transportation, or access to
medical care, it’s important to bring it up during your visit. These
challenges can affect your ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
12. Are you physically and emotionally safe?
Safety is a key component of brain health. This question addresses
concerns about physical or emotional harm, which can have a profound
impact on neurological well-being. Your doctor can help connect you with
resources if you’re facing unsafe conditions.
Why these questions matter
These 12 questions present a structured way
to discuss brain health during medical visits. Experts recommend using
them as a starting point for deeper conversations, tailoring advice to
individual needs. As preventive care becomes more central in neurology,
tools like these will help people take proactive steps toward lifelong
brain health.
The “SAFEST BRAINS” initiative stresses the importance of addressing
health holistically, reminding us that a healthy brain is key to overall
well-being.
“Neurologists are the experts in brain health, with the training and
insight needed to help you keep your brain in top shape throughout
life,” says American Academy of Neurology President Dr. Carlayne E.
Jackson, in a statement. “The American Academy of Neurology’s Brain
Health Initiative is leading the way, improving brain health for all by
providing neurologists with important information on preventive
neurology.”
The real challenge now is to ensure that everyone has equal access to
these preventive measures. It’s important to recognize that brain health
is not just a medical issue; it's a crucial component of overall human
well-being.