Cognitive decline refers to the gradual worsening of cognitive abilities like memory, thinking, reasoning, and decision making. Some memory loss and slowing of thinking speed is normal as we age, but significant decline can indicate underlying neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Common early symptoms of cognitive decline may include:
Cognitive decline puts individuals at higher risk of functional impairment in daily activities. Simple tasks like budgeting, cooking, and using technology may become challenging. It can greatly reduce one's independence and quality of life if not managed properly.
While cognitive decline is common in older adults, more severe deterioration is not necessarily inevitable with aging. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and brain training can help maintain cognitive health. Hormone imbalances and deficiencies may also accelerate decline for some. Getting checked at midlife can help safeguard your outlook.
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Below are some key habits shown to preserve healthy cognition:
The takeaway: Pay attention if you notice worsening mental aptitude or increased forgetfulness. Certain degrees of decline may be reversible through lifestyle strategies and hormone balancing. Seek medical advice to identify any underlying conditions requiring treatment. Be proactive now in maintaining cognitive health so you can keep enjoying the important people and activities in your life for years to come.