Tuesday, February 13, 2007

With age comes wisdom, but what exactly is wisdom? That question has been back in the news after recent studies showed the benefits of exercising your brain. With that in mind, it's worth looking back at the AARP's series of special reports on brain power at http://www.aarpmagazine.org/health/youre_wiser_now.html. The good news is that studies show older adults are better at problem-solving and at staying calm during crises than their younger counterparts.

The special section further dispels myths about the prevalence of memory loss, Alzheimer's and dementia in older adults, and offers free interactive games aimed at sharpening the mind.

Who knew the same plasma gas used in flat-screen TVs can also be used to smooth wrinkles? This month's Washingtonian explains the latest technology used in cosmetic treatments, including thermal energy and lasers, the average recovery time after various procedures and their oftentimes hefty price tags. The magazine sampled spas in the metropolitan area and lists its top choices, as well as its picks for dermatologists, and it profiles 10 Washingtonians' health and grooming routines. Interesting tidbit: Sen. Ted Stevens's strict eating habits have earned him the reputation of being a "nutritional terrorist."

-- Rachel Zavala