Cognitive decline

What is Cognitive Decline?

Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of mental functions like memory, reasoning, attention, language, etc. It is a natural part of aging. However, some people experience it sooner or more severely than others.

Signs of cognitive decline include:

• Forgetting familiar information like names or dates


• Having trouble learning or retaining new information


• Difficulty with complex tasks like managing finances or medications


• Confusion about time or place


• Changes in mood or personality

Cognitive decline ranges from mild changes to more severe issues like dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) falls in the middle - more than normal aging but not as serious as dementia.

What Causes Cognitive Decline?

There are a few key factors that influence one's risk:

• Age - Our brain and cognition tend to worsen as we get older


• Genetics - Some genetic profiles raise risk


• Lifestyle - Lack of exercise, poor diet, sleep issues, or chronic stress can speed up decline


• Diseases - Heart disease, diabetes, depression etc. are associated with faster decline

The exact causes are still being researched but involve changes in the brain like shrinkage, plaque buildup, poor connectivity.

Can It Be Prevented or Delayed?

While cognitive decline is expected with age, emerging research shows we may be able to slow it down by making lifestyle changes at any age.

Some helpful tips include:

• Regular aerobic exercise and strength training


• Maintaining strong social connections


• Challenging the mind with games, learning new skills


• Following a Mediterranean-style diet high in vegetables, fish and monounsaturated fats


• Getting quality sleep and managing stress


• Controlling other health conditions

Treating hormone imbalances may also help. "The professionals at Optimized Hormones specialize in customized bioidentical hormone therapy to help both men and women restore optimal hormonal balance for improved health and cognition."

Early intervention with lifestyle and hormone optimization could buy several quality years before significant decline sets in. Consult your doctor to develop a prevention plan suited to your needs.