Among the survey findings:

• Only 64 percent regularly read.

• Only 59 percent get enough sleep.

• Only 56 percent regularly exercise.

• Only 56 percent report a healthy diet.

• Only 43 percent believe they are doing enough to manage stress.

The AARP report also voiced concerns about a major misconception expressed by three-quarters of survey respondents: That vitamins and supplements improve cognitive health. In April, a study co-sponsored by AARP and conducted by the Institute of Medicine found no evidence that that was the case.

“This new survey is showing that there are big gaps between what people think is important for their brains and what they are actually doing to maintain their brain health,” said Sarah Lenz Lock, AARP senior vice president of policy, research and international affairs.

In the April report, a number of medications were also found to be linked to cognitive decline. Although the correlations weren’t overwhelming, the study warned seniors to watch their consumption of strong anticholinergic drugs, such as Benadryl, as well as benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium.

Many told the pollsters that they have noticed their own brain decline. Nearly 40 percent reported that they are having more trouble remembering things than before. Indeed, only 61 percent rated their brain health as excellent or very good, which is nevertheless much higher than the 43 percent who assessed their overall physical health as very good or excellent.