Cognitive (thinking) function is controlled by the brain. Many mental tasks make up cognitive function, including:
- learning
- making decisions
- paying attention
- problem solving
- remembering
- thinking
- understanding
The ability to perform these functions affects how well a person can complete daily tasks and live independently. As the brain ages, it is common to notice changes in these abilities. Sometimes, the changes are concerning, but at other times, they follow a path that is common to most people.
This article covers some important things to know about cognitive aging, including ways to maintain your cognitive health.
1. Typical cognitive changes can happen with age
Aging brings many changes in body function and health, including cognitive changes. In general, this is usually just a slowing of mental abilities. Examples of changes that older adults may notice as they age include:
- having a mild lack of attention
- needing more time to learn a new skill
- not being able to multitask as easily
- taking a little longer to remember a name or find the right word
However, not all changes are negative. Cognitive aging occurs throughout life, and living a long life can have brain benefits. Older adults tend to have larger vocabularies and have more wisdom, knowledge, and happiness.
2. Many factors can affect cognitive aging
People do not experience cognitive aging in the same way. They can see different kinds of changes, which can occur at different speeds. They can also happen to different degrees. This is true at all stages and ages of life, not just in old age.
Physical changes to both the brain and body that may occur with age can affect cognitive health. These changes may include:
- increased inflammation
- less blood flow to the brain
- less efficient communication between nerve cells in the brain
- shrinking of certain areas of the brain
In addition, your genes can play a role in how well your brain functions as you age. Other factors include lifestyle habits and environmental factors.
3. There are ways to help maintain cognitive health
According to the National Institute on Aging, many lifestyle habits may affect brain health, including:
- doing mentally stimulating activities
- eating a Mediterranean-style diet
- getting physical activity
- not drinking alcohol
- not smoking
- staying connected through social activities
Getting enough quality sleep is another lifestyle factor that may protect your brain as you age. Long-standing sleep problems may contribute to cognitive health problems.
Making these positive changes, such as improving heart health and reducing inflammation, is also likely to improve your physical health.
4. There are times you should seek professional help
Changes in cognitive function can be annoying, but sometimes, they are a concern to bring to your doctor. It is hard to define exactly when you should be worried or what symptoms are a problem. It comes down to how often the problem is happening or how much it is affecting your life.
If you have trouble from time to time, it may not be anything to worry about. However, if problems often occur, it could be a sign of something more than usual aging. It may also be a concern if the problem disrupts your life, such as forgetting to pay bills or go to appointments.
If a change is bothering you, play it safe and talk with your doctor.
5. It can be tricky to tell typical changes from disease
Because everyone is different, it can be hard to know what is typical and what is a real cognitive problem. Your doctor has the tools to help get to the bottom of a change that is concerning you. The first step is to rule out medical conditions that could be causing the issue, such as:
- delirium, or a sudden state of confusion or change in mental function
- depression
- medication side effects
- stroke
Doctors can then use assessments to help determine if cognitive problems are treatable.
Your doctor is the best source for understanding cognitive aging. Tell them about your concerns about your cognitive health or that of a loved one. They can explain the next steps to take, and together, you can make a plan that is right for you.