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Is your router putting you at risk? 5 ways to secure your home network

2025-05-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – The digital world is constantly changing, and with it, the threat landscape. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and as a result, our online security needs to be more robust than ever.

Your home network does not just connect you to the internet; your WiFi router or mesh system is also a virtual gateway to your home, your family and your personal information. That means your router is also the first line of defense against cyberattacks. It’s not just about speed and performance — it’s about choosing a device that helps protect your security and privacy.

Here are five things to keep in mind to help secure your home router when threats are on the rise:

1. Start with the basics: Secure your router with strong passwords and frequent updates

One of the most fundamental steps to securing your network is setting a strong password for your router. Avoid using simple, easy-to-guess phrases or sequential numbers. Instead, create a long, complex password with a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. This is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.

In addition, ensuring your router’s firmware is up to date is crucial. Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve functionality, so make sure your router is equipped with the latest patches. Some routers, including those from NETGEAR, come with automatic firmware updates to make this process even easier, helping protect your router from the latest threats.

2. Choose a trusted brand

When shopping for a router, it’s important to consider not only performance but also how the brand helps to keep your family and your data safe online. With cyber threats constantly evolving, you want a router from a trusted brand that’s committed to helping safeguard your network. Look for a company that offers security features out of the box and additional layers of protection to defend against both known and emerging threats.

Founded and based in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR has been pioneering WiFi innovation for nearly 30 years with an unrelenting focus on customer security and privacy. NETGEAR was among the first signatories of the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) initiative. This commitment ensures that products are built with security in mind. NETGEAR routers and mesh systems come with the latest security features such as advanced encryption, automatic firmware updates, firewall, VPN and NETGEAR’s Advanced Router Protection. This feature helps protect your router by recognizing and helping to block exploitation attempts. Additionally, it includes a rapid response mechanism to significantly reduce the time it takes to address security issues.

3. Consider extra protection with subscription-based security services

While basic security features are essential, additional layers of protection can give you added peace of mind. Subscription services like NETGEAR Armor™ Powered by Bitdefender provide online protection, blocking malware, viruses, spyware and phishing attempts before they can reach your devices. This service goes beyond traditional antivirus software, as it operates directly on your router, helping protect the devices connected to your network, including security cameras, baby monitors and other smart home devices.

NETGEAR Armor also includes advanced features like a VPN for encrypting your internet traffic. This level of protection extends even when you’re using your mobile devices on unfamiliar networks, helping protect your privacy and security whether you’re at home or on-the-go. For those who want even more robust protection, NETGEAR Armor Plus offers unlimited VPN access, ad-blocking and anti-tracking features, keeping your online activity, identity and location more private.

4. Ensure your privacy is protected

When purchasing a router, consider not only the features but also the company’s privacy practices. Many tech companies use personal data as a revenue stream, selling it to advertisers or other third parties. This is a practice you should keep an eye out for and avoid when selecting a router, as your privacy should be a top priority.

NETGEAR is committed to transparency and privacy. With products designed in the USA, the company adheres to strict privacy laws, ensuring that your personal data remains protected. NETGEAR’s privacy policy is clear and straightforward: they will never sell your personal information. If this is important to you, choosing a company with this level of commitment to privacy is essential in today’s data-driven world.

5. Look for a brand that innovates and upholds integrity

The world of connectivity is always evolving, and to stay ahead of cyber threats, you need a router from a brand that innovates and is guided by integrity.

Operating in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR is at the forefront of new technology, working with WiFi chipmakers and device manufacturers to help ensure smooth operation in your smart home and interoperability with the widest range of end point devices available. As a brand trusted by millions of households and named by Newsweek as one of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies, NETGEAR considers integrity a key pillar of its business.

While cyber threats are abundant, you don’t have to be an IT expert to protect your home. By choosing a trusted brand like NETGEAR, which combines top-notch performance with powerful security features and a commitment to privacy, you can connect with confidence knowing you’re backed by a company that truly cares. Read more about why NETGEAR is a trusted brand for WiFi at NETGEAR.com.

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5 vet-approved ways you can help your dog during allergy season

2025-05-13T11:15:00

(BPT) – As the seasons change, you might notice your dog experiencing some discomfort. Allergies aren’t just a human problem. If your dog is scratching or licking their paws more than usual, they might be experiencing seasonal allergies. In fact, allergies are one of the more common reasons that pet owners visit their veterinarian. So, how can you support your furry friend during allergy season? Purina veterinarian Dr. Martha Cline shares five expert tips to help your dog.

1. Bathe them regularly

One of the simplest ways to help your dog with their allergies is to bathe them regularly. Routine bathing can remove dirt and pollen from your dog’s fur and skin, and also cleans the skin, which eases allergies.

“Most healthy dogs don’t need to be bathed more than once a month,” said Dr. Cline. “That said, dogs with sensitive skin or allergies may need to be bathed more often. Talk to your vet about frequency and if there are specific shampoos that can help.”

2. Wipe your pet down after a walk

Make sure to wipe down your dog after a walk or outside playtime to help manage their allergies. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or fragrance-free, hypoallergenic pet wipes can remove pollen and other allergens that may have stuck to your pup’s fur and skin.

And pay close attention to your dog’s paws. The sensitive skin in this area can be prone to allergic reactions.

3. Consider nutrition and supplements

“What your dog eats can have an impact on the health of their skin,” said Dr. Cline. “Make sure your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients that support healthy skin and coat. And if your dog needs even more support, consider adding a supplement, like Skin Care from Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements, as a part of your overall approach.”

Skin Care features omega 6 and omega 3 to help maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier to support dogs with sensitive skin, including those with seasonal allergies; a blend of collagen, EPA and DHA to proactively support your dog’s skin health; and Vitamin E and zinc to promote a strong immune system. This non-prescription supplement comes in a great-tasting soft chew and is available at Amazon, Chewy and vet clinics.

Woman giving her French bulldog a treat.

4. Don’t skimp on flea control

Year-round flea control is important to your dog’s overall health and can also alleviate skin allergies. “While flea bites aren’t fun for any pup, some dogs may experience a severe allergic reaction to flea saliva called flea allergy dermatitis,” said Dr. Cline.

Talk to your vet about which flea control treatments are suitable for your four-legged friend. They may recommend a flea collar, oral medication and/or topical medications to quickly kill any living fleas and prevent new ones from emerging.

5. Talk with your vet about allergy medication

“Depending on the severity of your canine’s allergies, they may need an antihistamine or other allergy medication to help them feel less itchy,” said Dr. Cline. Talk with your veterinarian to discuss allergy medication options so your dog can spend less time scratching and biting and more time playing.

Don’t let allergies get your dog down. Using these five vet-approved tips, you can help your pup feel their best this spring and beyond.

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New study: Americans rate their financial happiness a 4.9 of out 10

2025-05-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – On America’s financial scorecard, people rate their happiness with their overall personal finances a 4.97 out of 10 — and scores need improvement across the board, as the majority (91%) are prioritizing their financial health and happiness in a year of decisions ahead. New Empower research introduces comprehensive findings on how Americans plan to navigate the next wave of decisions on saving, investing, and the value of good advice.

Self-assessment across all dimensions of people’s financial happiness is flagging: Americans rate their satisfaction with their retirement savings an average of 4.54, and the likelihood of retiring at their goal age at 4.93 out of 10. When rating their financial success, scores come in at 4.46, as over half feel success is further away now than it was a year ago (55%). Contentment with salary notches in at 4.65, and people grade their ability to afford a home at a 4.83.

Economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and market volatility may be influencing scores, and delaying some choices: 69% think the economy is too uncertain to make big money moves. Still, Americans say they plan to make important decisions in 2025, including figuring out how to make more money (43%); how to be financially happy (37%); and start an emergency savings fund (31%) — as 76% believe they need more savings to prepare for the unexpected. Nearly a third intend to make a financial plan (42% Gen Z, 39% Millennials).

“We are living in a ‘Great Decide’ as people forecast their fortunes in an unpredictable world. People feel they have to be financial futurists to make heads or tails. This era could majorly shift patterns of saving, investing and, critically, where people turn for advice,” says Rebecca Rickert, head of communications and consumer insights at Empower.

Navigating decisions

When it comes to making investment decisions, half of Americans say they’re ignoring the noise and taking the long-view approach to the stock market (49%). For 2 in 5 (39%), this time of uncertainty is ripe to make money moves, believing the adage “the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward” — a figure that rises substantially higher for younger generations (Gen Z 51% and Millennials 49%; compared to Gen X 40%, Boomers 22%) and for those with higher incomes (50% for those earning over $100k+). Almost half say they are going back to the basics by investing more in cash and gold (46%).

Rather than a generational divide, the study also uncovers “a generational decide” taking place. To navigate uncertainty, Americans see an opportunity to strengthen their network effect, which people currently pinpoint at a 5.55 out of 10. These valuable connections are perceived as linked to career and wealth building, particularly as the largest financial exchange in history is underway, with younger generations projected to inherit an estimated $84 trillion.1 For almost all, financial independence and interdependence go hand-in-hand: people say not having to rely on anyone else for money is as much a part of their happiness (84%) as being able to financially take care of their loved ones (81%).

Advice advantage

Six in 10 (58%) say they need trusted financial counsel now, more than ever, as confidence in getting good financial advice trails at a 5.14 out of 10 and satisfaction with their financial plan is a 5.08.

The upshot is 78% say having a financial plan to guide their decisions ahead makes them happier and less stressed. For the majority, health equals wealth (70%) and most agree that talking with a financial professional about their money goals is important (65%).

“Measuring what matters is one goal of our research. Everyone has their own idea of a perfect score as they define financial happiness,” notes Rickert.

More key findings from the report:

  • Stress relievers: To reduce their financial stress, Americans are decreasing their discretionary spending and non-essential expenses (32%), switching to cheaper brands than they normally buy (32%) and building an emergency savings fund (30%).
  • In advice we trust: Americans say financial professionals are the most trusted source of good money advice (50%) compared to just 10% for social media, 9% for AI, and 7% for influencers or podcasters.
  • Barriers to making it: Americans say the biggest roadblocks to achieving financial happiness include income (35%) and feeling like expenses are adding up (35%). Close to a third feel that they are not in a place where they can save money (31%).
  • Windfall wins: 74% say having more money would solve most of their problems, but a little can go a long way — 71% agree a windfall of just $5,000 would increase their financial happiness by at least six months. One quarter (22%) say they are banking on an inheritance to make ends meet.
  • Signs of the times: Just over half of Americans say money can buy happiness (51%), which is a slight drop from the 59% who answered yes to the same question in 2023.
  • Eye on AI: Americans rate the likelihood of AI replacing them at their jobs one day at a 3.72. They rank their level of comfort using AI for their personal finances nearly the same (3.73).

Visit The Currency™ to read Empower’s full research report, “The Great Decide.”

*ABOUT THE STUDY

Empower commissioned the “The Great Decide” study; based on online survey responses from 2,208 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party vendor from March 20-21, 2025.

  1. Cerulli Associates. “Cerulli Anticipates $84 Trillion in Wealth Transfers Through 2045.” January 2022.

RO4436765-0425

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Make the most of summer: 5 tips for boating confidently and safely

2025-05-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Looking for ways to make the most of your time outdoors this summer? Grab your crew and go boating! Being on the water is one of the best ways to disconnect from distractions on land, allowing you to relax and recharge in nature. Not only is there a scientific connection between boating and happiness — the sight and sound of water promotes wellness by increasing serotonin, lowering cortisol and reducing stress — but boating is also a fun way to spend time with loved ones and meet new people within the boating community. There are plenty of ways to get on the water whether you rent, charter, share, join a boat club or own a boat.

Remember, boating should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Before stepping on board or taking the helm, brush up on your nautical know-how to boost your confidence and create a safer environment, allowing for a pleasant, stress-free day on the water for everyone involved.

Man, wearing a cap backwards, driving a boat across a lake

“There’s nothing like spending a day on the water — where freedom meets fresh air, stress melts away and lasting memories are made with your favorite people,” said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president of Discover Boating. “Whether you’re new to boating, a seasoned captain or a passenger along for the ride, it’s always smart to brush up on the rules of the water. Discover Boating makes it easy with expert tips and safety resources right at your fingertips.”

Father and son fishing on a lake

Discover Boating is a one-stop destination for all things boating, from safety and education articles, maintenance checklists and boating destinations, to finding your dream boat, locating verified dealerships in your area and more.

Below are five tips from Discover Boating to improve your boating knowledge to ensure the best possible experience on your next boating adventure.

Learn boating safety essentials. View Discover Boating’s new video series in collaboration with Progressive Insurance® for expert tips ranging from preparing your boat for the season to trailering, boating with kids and furry friends and more. If you plan on buying a boat or you are a new boat owner, consider getting boat insurance for an added layer of security and protection.

Woman on the back of a pontoon while her dog, wearing a life jacket, stands on her chest


Take a boating course. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone your powerboating, sailing or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. On-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs and more are offered across the country.

Two girl friends riding a jet ski across a lake


Visit a boat show. Boat shows are an ideal place to immerse yourself in the boating lifestyle and provide a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with — and shop — a variety of boat dealers and marine product companies all under one roof. Most boat shows also offer hands-on demonstrations and educational opportunities for boaters of all experience levels. Find a boat show in your area.

Look for the seal of approval. When shopping for a boat, whether at a boat show, online or at a dealership, check to make sure it is NMMA Certified. NMMA Certified boat and trailer manufacturers have been independently inspected to ensure they meet strict industry standards for safety and construction, as well as all federal regulations. Look for the NMMA Certified sticker near the helm of a boat.

Maintenance matters. Similar to cars, there are a few areas that require regular maintenance by the owner, and a few areas that require maintenance at routine intervals, which most leave to the professionals. Prepare a boat maintenance checklist that covers everything from engine needs to cleaning to electrical systems to ensure your boat has a long lifespan.

Little girl, wearing her cap backwards, using her hand to spash water while sitting on the side of a boat in the lake.

Visit DiscoverBoating.com for safety tips, boat shopping tools, easy ways to get on the water and more. Be sure to tag @DiscoverBoating and use #SeeYouOutHere on social media to share your next boating adventure.

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Garage Safety Month: 5 expert tips to care for your door

2025-05-09T10:41:00

(BPT) – When was the last time you gave your garage door some TLC? Garage doors can weigh over 400 pounds, depending on the material, thickness, door size, and added windows, so keeping yours well-maintained is key to keeping yourself safe and ensuring it works properly.

May is Garage Safety Month, the ideal time to care for your garage door to prolong its life span, improve functionality, and prevent accidents. Don’t know where to start? Precision Garage Door Service®, a Neighborly® company, shares six expert tips to help you keep your garage door in working order and improve your safety.

Representative from Precision garage door outside with homeowner talking about garage door.

1. Declutter and organize

Before you can work on your garage door, you’ll need to declutter and organize your garage. Doing so will give you a clearer view of the door, and in the end, you’ll have a clean garage!

Take stock of the outdoor power equipment, tools, bikes, boxes, and other items you may have stored in your garage. Determine what you can keep, toss, or donate.

Once you’ve downsized and decluttered, organize your remaining tools and equipment. Your goal should be to ensure easy access while minimizing tripping hazards.

2. Inspect the garage door

Next, inspect your garage door. Precision Garage Door Service® recommends performing an annual inspection. It’s the best way to reduce the cost of unnecessary repairs to your garage door system.

During your inspection, pay close attention to the auto-reverse mechanism, springs and cables. Listen for unusual noises and vibrations, look for slow or uneven movements and sagging sections and take note of remote-control malfunctions. These are possible indicators of potential problems and may require professional services by a reputable garage door professional.

Representative from Precision garage door inside the garage with the homeowner inspecting the bottom of the door.

3. Lubricate your door

Lubrication is key to smooth garage door operation. This May, make sure to lubricate your door’s moving parts with either a spray lubricant or spray grease product. Do not use a penetrating fluid, a primary use of water displacement. This can cause long-term damage to garage door parts. Precision Garage Door Service recommends using a silicone-based lubricant.

What parts should you lubricate? According to Precision Garage Door® Service®, pay attention to the hinges, rollers, spring and bearing plates, lock, and top of the rail and armbar.

As you lubricate your door, you may notice that the counterbalance springs need adjustment. While there are a few garage door maintenance tasks you can do on your own, this one is best left to the professionals due to the risk of injury.

Representative from Precision garage door inside the garage showing the home owner how to disengage the garage door opener.

4. Upgrade to a smart garage door opener

If you haven’t already, consider upgrading your garage door with a smart opener. Smart garage door openers offer enhanced security and convenience, allowing you to ditch your regular garage door remote.

Instead, you’ll be able to use your smartphone to operate your garage door. This means that you’ll never have to worry about losing your remote. Also, a smart garage door opener means you can securely receive packages in your garage and allow friends and family to safely enter the garage, whether or not you’re home.

5. Schedule a repair or replacement

If your garage door is damaged, don’t take a chance. Contact a professional to repair or replace it. Find your local Precision Garage Door Service® location and schedule an on-site visit. During the visit, a skilled service professional will examine your garage door and provide options that best meet your needs.

Representative from Precision Garage Door in talking with a homeowner in front of his house.

This May, check another home improvement task off your list and give yourself peace of mind. To learn more about garage door safety tips and how to care for your door, visit PrecisionDoor.net/GarageDoorSafetyMonth.

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Don’t skip these 4 important spring home maintenance tasks

2025-05-09T14:49:00

(BPT) – As the world starts to wake up after a cold winter, it’s the perfect time to perform routine home maintenance tasks. Simple spring to-dos are the easiest way to find and fix existing problems before they turn into a massive headache.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing®, a Neighborly® company, knows how important spring maintenance is to prolong the life and value of your home. Doing these four home plumbing maintenance tasks this spring can help keep your home in tip-top shape this season and beyond.

1. Perform a visual plumbing fixtures check

A visual plumbing check is a quick and easy way to keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape. No matter the age of your home, regular plumbing checks can help prevent unexpected issues. Mr. Rooter Plumbing recommends checking the bathroom, kitchen and outdoor faucets for drips to ensure sinks and bathtubs drain properly, ensuring sinks and bathtubs drain properly.

Check under the sinks for leaks. Operate and check the emergency shut-off valves under the sinks, toilets and at the washer connection to ensure they are working properly. These are your first line of defense in the event of an emergency fixture problem. Be sure to examine the base of toilets for water damage and confirm that toilets flush smoothly without strange noises.

2. Have the water heater flushed

Regular water heater maintenance is essential to keep it running efficiently and extend its lifespan. Over time, sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and lead to costly repairs. Mr. Rooter Plumbing recommends having your water heater professionally serviced and flushed at least once a year to remove sediment and ensure optimal performance.

Checking for leaks, rust, or unusual noises can also help catch potential issues early. By keeping up with routine maintenance, homeowners can improve energy efficiency, maintain consistent hot water, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

3. Take a look at your pipes

Fluctuating temperatures cause pipes to shrink and expand, which may cause cracks and leaks. Left unchecked, you could be risking a burst pipe that could flood your home. As the warmer weather sets in, check exposed pipes in basements and under cabinets for rust, cracks, or leaks.

After a visual review, check for hidden leaks. You can easily do this by turning off all the taps and appliances that use water and then checking your water meter. If the meter is still moving, you may be dealing with a leak.

If you find any problems, don’t wait. Hire a professional to fix any issues, big or small, so you can avoid bigger problems down the road.

4. Address clogged drains

Have you noticed that the water drains slower than usual after a shower or bath? This may be a sign that your drains are clogged.

If simple fixes, like removing hair from the shower drain, don’t work, you may be dealing with something more serious, like tree root intrusion.

Close up of a PVC tube with a device used to clear away roots

As trees and plants awaken in the spring, their roots become more active, and that can spell trouble for underground pipes. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, making small cracks or joints in sewer lines the perfect entry point. Left unchecked, these roots can cause major clogs, pipe damage, or even a full collapse, leading to costly repairs.

If you suspect a tree root intrusion, calling a professional plumber for a sewer camera inspection can help catch problems early and prevent bigger headaches down the line. To learn about tree root intrusion and find a professional to take care of the problem, visit MrRooter.com/RootDamage.

Female representative from Mr. Rooter pulling a hose off a reel in the back of a truck that connects to a device used to clean tree roots out of a pipe.

Don’t wait

If you identify any problems when performing spring maintenance tasks, don’t wait. Proactive maintenance and repairs around your home are the best ways to protect your investment and peace of mind. Call a professional like Mr. Rooter so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the warmer weather and sunnier days ahead.

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Mercury Offers Auto Accessories Under $50 That Make Perfect Mother’s Day Gifts

2025-05-09T11:31:00

(BPT) – Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 11, and if you’re still hunting for the perfect last-minute gift, consider something practical that shows you care.

Mercury Insurance has curated nine thoughtful, budget-friendly auto accessories under $50 — each available online and designed to bring safety, comfort and convenience every time Mom hits the road.

Universal Car Headrest Hooks – $7.98
A simple way to keep purses, grocery bags and coats off the floor, these durable headrest hooks install in seconds. They help Mom stay organized and clutter-free, especially on busy days.

Papillon Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager with Heat – $39.99
Give Mom the gift of relaxation with this heated massager that targets back, neck and shoulder tension. Compact enough for use at home, in the office or in the car for long drives.

Car Backseat Organizer with Foldable Table Tray – $28.99
This sleek PU leather backseat organizer keeps essentials at hand and includes a foldable tray table for snacks, work or entertainment. Perfect for moms juggling errands, road trips and family outings.

Baby Car Mirror with HD Night Vision – $38.99
Keep Mom’s mind at ease with this baby car monitor that offers a crystal-clear view day or night. Ideal for parents of little ones, it makes rear-facing car seats safer and more reassuring.

Viewsun 17-Piece Pink Car Cleaning Kit – $45.99
For the mom who loves a clean ride, this fun pink cleaning kit has everything she needs to keep her car sparkling. It includes a handheld vacuum, brushes, cleaning gel and more.

Dual Dash Cam with 2.5K Front + 1080P Rear Recording – $49.99
This dual dash cam provides high-resolution video from both the front and rear, plus Wi-Fi, night vision and a parking mode. A smart safety upgrade for moms who spend a lot of time behind the wheel.

VARSK 4-in-1 Car Vacuum & Tire Inflator – $42.99
A handy gadget that combines a high-power car vacuum with a digital tire inflator, perfect for emergencies or everyday use. Comes in a variety of colors.

NBTEPEM 27-Piece Pink Bling Car Accessory Set – $34.99
Make Mom’s car sparkle with this 27-piece bling set, including a steering wheel cover, phone holder, coasters and license plate frame. A fun way to add glam and personality to her daily drive.

KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit – $21.99
This compact first aid kit is perfect for keeping in the car, diaper bag or purse, offering peace of mind on every outing. With 130 pieces, it’s TSA-approved and ready for any minor emergency.

“When looking for a special gift for mom, automotive accessories are always a good choice,” said Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State for Mercury Insurance. “These gifts help her arrive safely and in style.”

Many of these automotive accessories not only make great gifts for Mom, but they may also qualify for auto insurance discounts — check with your Mercury agent to learn more.

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Healthy body, healthy brain: Tips to optimize your brain health

2025-05-08T16:33:00

(BPT) – By 2030, more than 20% of the U.S. population — about 71 million Americans — will be over the age of 65. With age, many of us may notice changes in cognition — things like misplacing our keys or forgetting a neighbor’s name. While we expect our bodies to change with age and aren’t alarmed when they do, many people assume the worst when their memory or cognition changes. It’s important to understand that our brains age just like our bodies.

Cognitive aging or brain aging is not a disease. It’s part of an ongoing process that begins at birth and continues throughout the lifespan. In early childhood, our brains grow and develop at a rapid pace. As we grow older, changes in the brain due to aging can affect things like learning and memory. Processing speed, decision-making and memory are often some of the first cognitive abilities to decline due to aging.

Cognitive aging is normal, and it happens to all of us. You can’t prevent your brain from aging, but you can take action to optimize your brain and cognitive health.

The McKnight Brain Research Foundation’s Brain Works initiative aims to educate the public on cognitive aging as a critical step to reducing fear and encouraging behavior change to promote healthy brain aging. Learn more about the steps you can take to optimize your brain health below.

Tips to Optimize Your Brain Health:

Remember the old adage: Healthy heart, healthy mind

Woman doctor listening to older male patient heart using a stethoscope.

Evidence shows that risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke, like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes, negatively impact your cognitive health. Take care of your heart and your brain by maintaining a healthy weight and managing your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Keep your mind active

Older man playing chess

Challenging and activating the mind with activities like learning a new language, instrument or skill, helps keep your mind sharp. Doing puzzles and playing games are also good ways to encourage strategic thinking.

Find your purpose

Smiling older woman in her craft room

What motivates you and lights your world each day? Whatever it is, having and building a sense of meaning and purpose in life can bring countless psychological and physical health benefits! Having a sense of purpose has been linked to a lower risk of developing dementia or cognitive impairment. Having purpose is also linked to a longer and healthier lifespan and better well-being in older age.

Prioritize your mental health & manage stress

Smilng, older woman holding a coffe cup and looking out the window

Mental health is an important component of overall brain health, so it’s not surprising that depression is linked with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Managing stress and seeking medical attention for symptoms of depression, low mood, anxiety or other mental health concerns will help maintain your brain and cognitive health later in life.

Stay social

Older couple keeping fit by voluteering and cleaning up a community park

Social interaction isn’t only fun; it’s important for your brain health. Pursuing social activities you enjoy and find interesting will help you build and maintain social connections with friends and people in your local community. Volunteering at an animal shelter or food pantry, getting involved with activities at your church, or sharing the games and activities you enjoy with friends and family are all great ways to get and stay social.

Follow a healthy diet

Older couple enjoying lunch outside

Eating a healthy and balanced diet that’s rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products can reduce inflammation, the risk of disease and help support brain health. For peak cognitive health, also stay hydrated, limit alcohol consumption and reduce your intake of solid fats, sugar, sodium and highly processed foods.

Take a walk

Two older woman out on a walk together

A daily walk is a perfect way to get in the physical activity needed to maintain good brain health. Aim for 30 minutes a day and break it into shorter sessions if needed. Several studies have linked regular physical activity with a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Even simple exercises using your body weight or a few light weights can pay off!

For more resources on cognitive aging, including questions to ask your doctor, brain health tips, and the latest research findings, visit the McKnight Brain Research Foundation’s Brain Works resource hub at: https://mcknightbrain.org/brainworks/.

About the Brain Works Campaign

The McKnight Brain Research Foundation launched the “Brain Works: Optimize Your Brain Span” campaign in March 2024 to educate the public on cognitive aging and offer tips to help maintain optimal brain health with age. The campaign features information on cognitive aging, including an online hub of tools and resources from the McKnight Brain Research Foundation and other reputable organizations with cognitive health expertise. Visit the resource hub and learn more at: McKnightBrain.org/BrainWorks.

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Could a Synthetic Form of Thiamine (Vitamin B1) be a Potential Ally Against Early Alzheimer’s Disease?

2025-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – In the relentless battle against Alzheimer’s disease, researchers are looking closely at a lab-made version of thiamine (also known as vitamin B1). This nutrient, crucial for brain function and energy production, is now in the spotlight for its potential role in combating cognitive decline.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior that affects nearly seven million individuals in the U.S., and that number is expected to reach 13 million by 2050.[1] The good news is the Alzheimer’s Association says this is a time of great promise in Alzheimer’s research with increased government and philanthropic funding and a growing community of scientists — all of which are instrumental to finding new treatments to stop, slow and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.[2]

Take Carole, wife and mother of two. “I have been living with Alzheimer’s disease for three years and while the disease has taken its toll on me, it has really impacted my whole family. I was always the caretaker in our house, but my husband has had to step into that role now. He and my children have become my support system and I know it’s not easy for them either. I am hopeful that researchers can discover more and better new treatments for people with the disease.”

Smiling Carole and Hank at a conference in a tropical location.

New Research in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease

In an effort to alleviate the burden of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have long sought new ways to treat and prevent the devastating disease. Recently, their attention has turned to thiamine, a nutrient with extraordinary potential. The brain tissue of people with Alzheimer’s disease shows that they have a thiamine deficiency, even though they may have a sufficient supply of thiamine in their blood. This is likely due to a diminished ability to deliver thiamine to their brain. A lack of thiamine in the brain compromises memory and cognition.

An illustration of a woman's head in a transparent, purple silhouette with multi-color lighted areas in the cranium; simulating brain actively.

Scientists are cautiously optimistic that boosting thiamine levels could hold the key to slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. By significantly increasing the amount of thiamine in the bloodstream, they hope to provide a much-needed boost to brain function and memory retention. Furthermore, they believe that benfotiamine could work in combination with other existing treatments to offer additional benefits beyond what current therapies can achieve.

While the idea of a readily available intervention that helps slow or stop Alzheimer’s disease cognitive decline is appealing, more research is needed to establish the link between thiamine and Alzheimer’s disease. A new clinical trial, funded by the National Institute of Aging at the National Institutes of Health, is seeking to shed light on this potential connection. This trial will focus on benfotiamine, a synthetic form of thiamine specifically developed to enhance its absorption by the brain.

For Carole, and countless others like her, this trial represents hope in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The possibility of a potential treatment is a ray of light in an otherwise difficult landscape.

Impact of Alzheimer’s on Different Populations

Hispanic and Black communities bear a disproportionate burden of the disease. In fact, studies have shown that older Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to older non-Hispanic White Americans,[3] while older Hispanic Americans are one and a half times more likely.[4] In addition, there is growing scientific evidence that biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease are not the same across populations.[5]

A group of laughing seniors taking a selfie in the community room.

In light of these disparities, it is imperative that research into potential treatments like benfotiamine considers the diverse experiences of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. “By including all populations in clinical trials to meet their specific needs, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against this devastating disease,” said José Alejandro Luchsinger, M.D., MPH, Vice-Chair for Clinical and Epidemiologic Research at Columbia University and a lead investigator in the benfotiamine trial.

Participating in the Benfotiamine Trial

The benfotiamine trial (BenfoTeam Trial) needs people of every race and ethnicity to participate in the study to help find a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease that works for all. The clinical trial is taking place in approximately 40 clinical trial sites across the U.S. and enrolling people who are:

  • Aged 50-89
  • Experiencing mild memory concerns or previously diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer’s disease
  • Positive Alzheimer’s disease blood test
  • Stable on current FDA-approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (with or without memantine) for at least three months prior to screening
  • Living in the community (not in a long-term care nursing facility)
  • Willing to participate in the BenfoTeam study for up to 18 months (plus screening)

To learn more about the study, visit BenfoTeam.org.

[1] Alzheimer’s Association. 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Available at https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf. Accessed on June 11, 2024.

[2] Alzheimer’s Association. Research and Progress. Available at https://www.alz.org/research/research_progress. Accessed June 12, 2024.

[4] Hispanic Americans and Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s Association. Available at https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/hispanics-and-alzheimers. Accessed May 8, 2024.

[5] Gleason CWE, Zuelsdorff M, Gooding DC, et al. Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in Black and non-Hispanic White cohorts: A contextualized review of the evidence. Alzheimers Dement. 2022 Aug; 18(8): 1545–1564.