Senior citizens are encouraged to focus on cognitive health since changes can occur within the body as people age. Learn what cognitive health is and reasons why it’s beneficial for older adults to focus on this all-important subject.
What is it?
Cognitive health is a general term that refers to the ability to think, learn and remember clearly. Per NIH.gov, it encompasses aspects of intellectual functions such as:
- Attention
- Comprehension
- Decision making
- Formation of knowledge
- Imagination
- Intelligence
- Judgment and evaluation
- Memory and working memory
- Perception
- Problem solving
- Production of language
- Reasoning and computation
- Thought
Many factors contribute to cognitive health, such as genetics, environmental, and lifestyle. Brain health can also be affected by injury, illness, addiction, dementia and more.
Age-related forgetfulness
Scientific research suggests that people can take steps to manage and protect cognitive health. Older people may do puzzles, read books, play games, or join clubs to keep the brain sharp and engaged. Occasional bouts of mild forgetfulness may happen as people grow older. For example, an elderly person may experience slower recall or realize that they forgot to pay a bill. This can be due to changes in the brain that accompany normal aging. Even slight cognitive changes should be reported to a doctor. Memory declines that happen rapidly are of special concern as they necessitate prompt medical attention.
Sudden cognitive decline
A sudden or severe cognitive decline in the elderly is frequently a sign of delirium, a state of acute confusion that can be triggered by various factors such as infection, medication, dehydration, pain, stress, or other potential causes such as stroke, rapidly progressing dementia or significant electrolyte imbalances as examples. Depending upon the cause, it may be treatable with medical intervention.
Talking to your doctor
Your doctor is your partner in health. Should you or family members note changes to cognitive health, it’s best to seek medical help. Per National Institute on Aging, noticeable signs that should be reported to a doctor promptly include:
- Asking the same question repeatedly
- Getting lost in previously familiar places
- Having trouble following recipes or directions
- Becoming more confused about time, people, and places
- Self-neglect
Why be monitored?
Memory can change with age. As a result, some older people may notice subtle changes in information recall and retention. When mild, these “memory lapses” are not considered to be serious. However, mature adults should regularly see their doctor to discuss and monitor all aspects of physical and mental health to include memory.
A doctor can perform tests and assessments to help determine the source of memory problems. A healthcare provider may also refer patients to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in treating conditions/diseases of the brain and nervous system.
Ways to keep the mind sharp
As the years pass, aging people can help to keep their minds sharp by exercising the brain. Studies show that the act of sharpening memory and mental skills may help to slow cognitive decline. Keeping the brain active is key, particularly during retirement years.
Here are ways that retired people can engage the brain and stimulate thinking and memory:
- Learning new skills such as playing an instrument, painting, or learning a language.
- Participating in fun hobbies such as playing cards, computer games, board games, and crafting.
- Interacting socially with family, friends, and the community by playing sports, joining clubs, singing in the choir, etc.
- Doing stimulating solo tasks such as reading, doing puzzles, yoga or Tai Chi.
- Performing volunteer duties or working part-time.
Here are some other helpful memory-related tips:
- Following a daily routine to reduce incidences of forgetfulness such as taking medication or watering plants at the same time daily.
- Writing to do lists, using calendars, and setting alarms as memory tools.
- Keeping daily use items in the same place including medications, keys, cellphones, handbags, glasses, etc. so they are easy to find.
What is MCI?
A condition exists known as mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Mayo Clinic describes it as “the in-between stage between typical thinking skills and dementia.” This condition causes memory loss and trouble with language and judgement. People may be aware that their memory or mental ability has changed. The condition requires a medical diagnosis. Per National Institute on Aging (NIH) people diagnosed with MCI have more memory or thinking problems than other people their age. While those with MCI can generally take care of themselves, it may be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease. NIH cautions, not everyone with MCI will go on to develop Alzheimer’s. With any memory-related change, one should be medically evaluated.
Staying on top of your health
As people grow older, it is normal to have some slight memory issues related to advanced age. However, noticeable memory lapses, increased forgetfulness, and changes in how one feels or functions should be reported to a doctor. Staying on top of how one feels, taking care of one’s body and getting regular health checkups are beneficial to safeguarding brain health. Additionally, families should strive to monitor elderly relatives in need of assistance.
No magic pills
Unfortunately, there are no magic pills or lifestyle approaches to prevent progressive neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or related dementia. However, maintaining one’s overall health by getting adequate sleep, staying active, eating right, and controlling blood pressure and other health conditions may reduce risks of chronic health problems, even possibly helping to reduce risk of dementia or slow the onset of symptoms. Senior citizens and their families should watch out for scams involving the ability to miraculously fix or prevent dementia. Those products are largely a waste of money and may potentially be dangerous. Always talk to your doctor before purchasing any brain supplements, vitamins, or over the counter medications to make sure they are right for you.
Brief recap
Paying attention to cognitive health is important, particularly for older senior citizens who may experience slight brain changes due to aging. Slight forgetfulness can happen as people grow older. It is different than sudden cognitive decline that requires prompt medical attention. It is also different than progressive forms of dementia. Regardless, any changes to memory or thinking should be medically evaluated. Living healthfully, keeping the brain sharp with activities, and partnering with a doctor to monitor overall health can help older people maintain independence for a good, long time.
Disclosure: This article is purely informational. It is not intended as a medical resource or substitute for medical advice. As always, address health concerns with a professional.