“ I AM NOT A DOCTOR OR A MEDICAL EXPERT. THE CONTENTS OF THIS VIDEO ARE FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND BASED ON GENERAL KNOWLEDGE GAINED THROUGH RELIABLE SOURCES. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR FOR ANY MEDICAL ADVICE “
WHAT IS COGNITIVE DECLINE ?
It refers to the gradual decrease in cognitive abilities such as memory, reasoning, attention, and decision-making that often occurs as people age. While some degree of cognitive decline is a natural part of aging, severe cognitive decline can be indicative of underlying medical conditions such as MCI (Marginal Cognitive Impairment) Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, or other forms of dementia. Our brain is a complex machine. The average weight of brain is 3 Ibs with 100 billion neurons and 100 trillion synapses (gaps between neurons). They communicate with each other using a combination of electrical and chemical (electrochemical) signals.
SIGNS & SYMPTONS
Some common signs and symptoms of cognitive decline include:
1. Memory loss, especially short-term memory loss.
2. Difficulty concentrating or paying attention.
3. Challenges with problem-solving and decision-making.
4. Language difficulties, such as trouble finding the right words or understanding speech.
5. Decreased ability to multitask or manage complex tasks.
6. Changes in mood or behavior, including increased irritability or depression.
7. Decreased spatial awareness or difficulty with navigation. (The ability to understand your body's position in relation to your surroundings)
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THIS CONDITION
Several factors can contribute to cognitive decline, including genetics, lifestyle factors (such as diet, exercise, and sleep habits), medical conditions (like cardiovascular disease or diabetes), and environmental factors (such as exposure to toxins or pollutants).
TYPES OR STAGES OF COGNITIVE DECLINE
1. Normal Aging: As individuals age, they may experience subtle changes in cognitive function, such as minor forgetfulness or slower processing speed.
2. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): MCI is a stage between normal age-related cognitive decline and more serious cognitive decline.
3. Early Stage: In the early stages of cognitive decline, individuals may begin to experience more noticeable changes in cognitive function.
4. Moderate Stage: As cognitive decline progresses to the moderate stage, individuals may experience more pronounced impairments in cognitive function.
5. Severe Stage: In the severe stage of cognitive decline, individuals experience significant cognitive impairment that profoundly affects their ability to function independently.
MCI or DEMENTIA (DETECTION / DIAGNOSIS)
The most important point is that If individuals or their loved ones notice significant changes in cognitive function, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
Here I am giving some points agreed by experts & professional in this field to handle cognitive decline / stop progression or even reverse the conditions.
1-DIET. Diet is the most important thing and responsible for all type of ailments. Extra virgin olive oil is considered very good . Intake of sugar affects the brain adversely and can lead to MCI or Alzheimer’s. Avoid cold drinks, fruit juices and processed foods.
2-EXERCISE / ACTIVITY. Daily activity keeps almost all diseases away. Exercise helps to minimise the bad effects of MCI or Dementia.
3-ENOUGH RESTFUL SLEEP. Lack of proper sleep is also one of the reasons for these medical conditions. 7 to 9 hours sleep is recommended by experts.
4-SOCIAL INTERACTIONS. Socializing is an important factor to improve the condition. Meet people more often. Extend your social interactions and attend various gathering.
5-AVOID FALLS / HEAD INJURIES. Safety of your whole body and particularly head is very important. Be careful and avoid falls particularly head injuries.
6-STOP SMOKING. It needs no explanation.
7-KNOW YOUR HEALTH NUMBER. The health numbers must be monitored and remembered such as BP, Sugar, Kidney function, Liver function, Lipid profile etc
8-LEARNING & READING. Learning something new and reading is considered a good brain exercise. Cross words, puzzles or simply following a hobby can be very helpful.
9-SEE YOUR DOCTOR. Remain in touch with your family doctor periodically. In case of hearing loss immediately consult your doctor it can also be a risk factor.
10- MANAGE STRESS. Stress contributes significantly towards this ailment which should be managed properly.
11- CHECK YOUR MEDICATIONS
Several medications can have adverse effects on memory and cognitive function. Like medications used to treat anxiety or insomnia), or sleeping pills and some antidepressants, and many pain medications. Please discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking.
12-CONTROL OBESITY. Obesity is the number one reason for all diseases. Control it and remain within the healthy range of weight for your age / sex etc.