Alzheimer’s is a terrifying disease that robs you of your memories in old age and causes one to whither away mentally — often heartbreakingly so for family members. If you don’t want it to happen to you, there are fortunately some steps you can take based on new research.

It all comes down to lifestyle, the research has concluded. Instead of worrying about the latest drugs to come on the horizon to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s or cure it altogether, the best way to prevent it is pretty much the best way to prevent any disease: living a good, clean, healthy, active lifestyle, according to an Associated Press report.

Tip #1: Get more sleep, and make sure you’re sleeping well. Researchers have found that poor sleep quality can negate even a long sleep, so if you suffer from sleep apnea, even if it’s a mild case, it can turn into cognitive impairment, which raises the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Tip #2: Make sure your brain is getting plenty of exercise, not just your body. Do crossword puzzles, learn a new language, or take up an instrument. Whatever you do, make sure your brain is busy.

Tip #3: But seriously, make sure your body is getting exercise too. Being good to your heart can prevent a lot of heart-related problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. And that’s not just good for the cardiovascular system, it’s also good for your brain as well.

Tip #4: Don’t ignore mental health problems. If you have depression, consider that an early risk factor for Alzheimer’s and get treatment for it. Also, make sure you don’t have too much stress in your life, as that can also be bad for your brain.

Tip #5: Make sure your diet is a healthy, nutritious one. Nothing beats a good diet for defeating a wide range of diseases, and Alzheimer’s is no exception. If you’re eating your fruits and veggies and keeping fat and sugar out, you’re less likely to come down with dementia when you’re older.