Gradual mental decline in older individuals who are not suffering from Alzheimer's is one of the most common and challenging health problems seen in this population.
A committee reviewed the problem of "cognitive aging," and made three major suggestions for individuals who wish to fight it, the National Academy of Sciences reported.
"Changes in mental functions and capabilities are a part of aging and occur with everyone," said committee chair Dan G. Blazer, the J.P. Gibbons Professor of Psychiatry Emeritus at Duke University Medical Center. "The extent and nature of these changes vary widely and are gradual, and aging can have both positive and negative effects on cognition. Wisdom and knowledge can increase with age, while memory and attention can decline."
The researchers said the top three ways to fight age-related cognitive decline are: remaining physically active; reduce cardiovascular risks such as high blood pressure and smoking; and regularly discuss health factors that could influence cognition with a healthcare provider. Other great ways to fight cognitive decline is to remain intellectually active, get adequate sleep, and carefully evaluate the effect of products such as nutritional supplements and medication.
The report also urged communities and businesses to work towards the development of programs that help older individuals address their mental health. Healthcare providers should also be prepared to discuss and council older patients on these issues.
"We are only really beginning to understand how the brain changes with age," said Victor Dzau, president of the Institute of Medicine. "As the population of older Americans grows, so will the effects of cognitive aging on society. By calling attention to this issue, we can learn more about the risk and protective factors and needed research so older adults can better maintain their cognitive health to the fullest extent possible."
