As financial advisors, we often focus on preserving wealth. But what about preserving the ability to enjoy that wealth? For higher-net-worth individuals in their 40s and 50s, financial independence is within reach. The next frontier is ensuring you remain healthy—both physically and mentally—enough to enjoy the life you’ve built.
Staying mentally sharp is just as important as having a sound financial plan. Cognitive health plays a critical role in decision-making, maintaining independence, and living a fulfilling life in the years ahead. Just as you plan for long-term financial security, it’s worth investing in long-term brain health.
Emerging research confirms what many of us have suspected: dementia and cognitive decline aren’t just about aging. They’re influenced by decades of lifestyle choices—many of which are surprisingly modifiable. Taking action now—while you’re still in your peak earning and decision-making years—can make all the difference.
What Raises Your Risk of Dementia?
Cognitive decline is not inevitable. However, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing dementia:
- Hypertension and heart disease
- Diabetes and obesity
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Chronic stress and sleep deprivation
- Social isolation
- Untreated depression
- Low cognitive engagement (“mental retirement”)
What Helps Lower the Risk of Dementia?
The good news: many of these risks are within your control. The same proactive mindset that drives financial success can support long-term cognitive health.
1. Manage Cardiovascular Health
What’s good for the heart is good for the brain. Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar in check through regular screenings and healthy habits.
2. Sleep Like It Matters
Consistent, quality sleep clears metabolic waste from the brain. Aim for 7-9 hours per night, and address any sleep apnea or insomnia concerns early.
3. Stay Mentally Active
Reading, learning new skills, playing strategy games, or even picking up a new language can help build “cognitive reserve” and protect brain function.
4. Move with Purpose
Regular physical activity—especially aerobic and strength training—has been shown to support memory and reduce brain inflammation.
5. Prioritize Connection
Social engagement is protective. Invest time in friendships, group activities, and shared experiences. Some studies show that loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
6. Limit Alcohol, Avoid Tobacco
Moderate alcohol consumption (or none at all) and avoiding tobacco use remain foundational health practices.
7. Eat for Brain Health
The MIND diet—a hybrid of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—emphasizes leafy greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, and fish. Limiting processed foods and sugar is also key.
8. Keep Purpose Front and Center
A strong sense of purpose and regularly engaging in meaningful activities are linked to slower cognitive decline. Retirement planning isn’t just about finances—it’s about designing a life with meaning, structure and intention.
Listen in to our podcast episode: How to Retire Successfully: There’s More To It Than Money
A Holistic Kind of Wealth
Preserving cognitive health is part of preserving the life you’ve worked so hard to create. Just as you diversify your portfolio, diversifying how you engage your body, mind, and relationships is vital for long-term well-being.
We believe true wealth is about more than numbers. It’s about freedom, vitality, and options. Prioritizing brain health as part of your midlife planning is another way to protect your most valuable assets: your time, your independence, and your legacy.
If you’re thinking seriously about longevity—and not just in financial terms—we’re here to help you plan for that, too.
