Climbing stairs has been increasingly ingrained in exercise guidance, but it can sometimes be hard to find a place to do it. Many people who do it regularly say office tower managers commonly cut off stairwell access, sometimes out of fear of being held liable if someone trips or slips on a staircase. But stair enthusiasts find their own ways to take their exercise to another level. Taking the stairs every day can add up, meaning you can improve your health even if you can't go for a run or do a 30-minute workout.

Doctors often advise exercising your brain to stay sharp but stretching your brain might be the better description. Research increasingly shows a variety of habits and hobbies offer a helpful cognitive workout. One recent study linked lifelong learning — things like reading, learning another language, playing chess — to slower cognitive decline, even postponing Alzheimer's for a few years. It's not proof. But experts say lifestyle changes that also include physical exercise, controlling blood pressure, good sleep and even a shingles vaccination offer a chance at slowing deterioration as we get older.

Older Americans worried about cognitive decline can stay sharper for longer by exercising both their bodies and their brains and eating healthier. That's according to initial results released Monday from a rigorous U.S. study of lifestyle changes in seniors at risk of developing dementia. A combination of healthier habits slowed typical age-related cognitive decline by up to two years, researchers reported in JAMA and at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference. It's not too late to get started and it doesn't require becoming a pickleball champ or swearing off ice cream.