2 Sep 2025 : At 78, Professor Ramesh Iyer still solves complex math puzzles faster than many of his former students. His “razor-sharp” brain has become the subject of admiration in his community and curiosity among neuroscientists. Doctors say his mental agility at such an advanced age is no coincidence — it’s the result of years of deliberate lifestyle choices.
A Life of Mental Discipline
Professor Iyer, a retired mathematics professor from Pune, attributes his cognitive health to consistent mental stimulation. “I never let my mind sit idle. Whether it’s reading new research papers, solving puzzles, or playing chess, I make sure my brain is working every day,” he says.
Neurologists agree that regular mental activity can strengthen neural connections and build “cognitive reserve,” which helps delay symptoms of age-related decline like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Key Habits That Keep His Brain Young
- Daily Learning: He spends at least two hours a day reading books, research articles, or learning something new — from history to coding.
- Balanced Diet: His diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains, which have been linked to improved memory and brain health.
- Physical Exercise: He walks 5 km every morning, a habit shown to boost blood flow to the brain and improve overall cognitive function.
- Social Engagement: Professor Iyer is an active participant in local community clubs and online forums, reducing the risk of isolation, which can accelerate cognitive decline.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Practicing meditation for 20 minutes daily helps him manage stress and maintain emotional balance.
What Experts Say
Dr. Meera Patil, a neurologist at AIIMS, notes, “Cases like Professor Iyer’s remind us that lifestyle plays a huge role in cognitive ageing. Genetics may load the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger.”
How You Can Delay Brain Ageing
Experts recommend:
- Stimulating activities: Learn a new language, play brain games, or take up a creative hobby.
- Sleep hygiene: 7–8 hours of sleep per night is crucial for memory consolidation.
- Balanced nutrition: Diets like the Mediterranean diet are proven to support brain health.
- Regular health check-ups: Managing diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol can prevent vascular dementia.
A Message of Hope
Professor Iyer’s story is a powerful reminder that ageing doesn’t have to mean mental decline. “I tell my students — and now my grandchildren — that the brain is like a muscle. Use it, or you’ll lose it,” he says with a smile.
Summary
At 78, Professor Ramesh Iyer maintains a sharp mind thr