Cognitive decline - Harmonize Care

Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of mental functions like memory, reasoning, attention, language, etc. It is a natural part of the aging process, but can be accelerated by medical conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

The most common signs of cognitive decline include:

• Forgetting names, events, appointments, etc. more often
• Taking longer to learn new things and recall information
• Increased difficulty with planning, organizing, and decision making
• Struggling to keep track of bills and finances
• Getting lost in familiar places or misplacing items more frequently

What Causes Cognitive Decline?

Normal aging can lead to some cognitive decline, but several other factors can accelerate it:

• Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
• Vascular conditions that block blood flow to the brain
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
• Sleep disorders
• Depression and chronic stress
• Sedentary lifestyle lacking mental and social stimulation

Healthy lifestyle choices can help slow age-related cognitive decline:

• Exercise regularly to improve blood flow to the brain
• Eat a nutritious diet high in antioxidants
• Challenge your brain daily with games, reading, puzzles
• Stay socially engaged and learn new skills
• Treat health issues like sleep apnea, depression, etc.
• Limit alcohol and quit smoking

When to See a Doctor?

Consult your doctor if you notice cognitive difficulties interfering with your daily activities. Early evaluation can help identify any treatable causes. Your doctor may recommend:

• Blood tests to check vitamin levels and thyroid function
• Depression/anxiety screening
• MRI to look for stroke, tumors, or atrophy
• Cognitive testing to evaluate memory and thinking
• Medications like memantine and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
• Occupational therapy to develop coping skills

Mild cognitive impairment can be improved with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. Catching irreversible conditions like Alzheimer's early allows more time to plan care before significant impairment occurs.

So in summary, some cognitive decline is expected with aging, but a sudden or rapid deterioration in brain function should be evaluated promptly to look for underlying causes. Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle can help preserve cognitive abilities as you grow older.

The Harmonize Care offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment options for cognitive decline. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.