Staying alert If you stay active and engaged with life there's a good chance you'll stay alert and bright to the end of your days. Gene Cohen’s research has identified five ways to sustain power, clarity and subtlety of mind:  ·       Exercise mentally ·       Exercise physically ·       Pick challenging leisure activities ·       Achieve mastery ·       Establish strong social networks “Adulthood is not a developmental destination or pinnacle, either psychologically or neurologically. It is the continuing evolution of our brains and our selves that constantly invites us to have a more active hand in our destiny.” Gene Cohen, Director of Centre on Ageing, George Washington University