Physical fitness and mental fitness are good ways to begin to improve your memory. Exercise, first of all, is good for the lungs. People who have good lung function send more oxygen through blood vessels into their brain. It also helps reduce the risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, and strokes.

Researchers at the Harvard Medical School offer the following ways to include exercise in your daily routine.

Set aside a time daily. Walk, when possible, instead of driving. Use stairs instead of elevator. Exercise at home, perhaps with an exercise video. Plant a garden. Join a health club or exercise class. Swim.

But before starting, check with your doctor if you have not been active physically in recent months.