Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of brain functions like memory, learning, attention, thinking, planning, reasoning, and judgment over time. It is a part of the normal aging process, but can be accelerated by certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors.
Some key signs of cognitive decline include:
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition where greater than normal age-related cognitive losses occur without significantly affecting daily function. MCI may increase dementia risk if unchecked.
Dementia entails more severe impairment that does interfere with independence, including Alzheimer's disease. Lifestyle changes and checkups to rule out reversible causes are advised when decline is noticed.
The brain shrinks and loses nerve cells and connections vital for cognition as we age. Certain factors like genetics, head trauma, hearing loss, depression, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, social isolation, and low education can quicken shrinkage and cell damage.
Protecting brain health is crucial. Recommended strategies include:
Early detection allows earlier intervention to slow or limit decline. The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic provides complete hormone panels and replacement therapies personalized to your needs to help regulate energy, sleep, mood, memory and more. Ask your doctor if hormone therapy is right for you or ()!
I hope this overview on cognitive decline was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.