Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of mental functions like memory, language, thinking, judgment, and planning over time. It is a broad term that encompasses everything from normal age-related changes in cognition to more serious conditions like dementia. Some key things to know about cognitive decline:
- It can start as early as your 30s and 40s. Subtle declines in processing speed, memory, reasoning, etc may begin decades before major impairment sets in. The rate of decline varies greatly between individuals.
- Normal aging brings about mild cognitive changes. As we get older, we may find it a bit harder to multitask, learn new things, focus, or recall details. This is a normal part of aging.
- More serious issues like mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease represent more abnormal levels of decline compared to one's age group. When decline starts impacting daily life, it is considered abnormal.
- Advancing age
- Genetics and family history
- Physical inactivity
- Sleep disorders
- Vascular factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
- Eating a healthy diet high in vegetables, berries and omega-3s
- Exercising regularly - both aerobic and strength training
- Challenging your brain with mentally stimulating activities
- Staying socially active
- Getting adequate sleep
- Managing chronic health conditions