Our Brain and Cognitive Health
Our Aging Brain
Volume of brain decreases
• Especially frontal cortex
• Declining
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Speed of thinking
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Attention
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Social inhibition
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Multitasking more difficult
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Normal to misplace keys or names of new person
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Knowledge stable - sometimes improves
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Routine memory and skills stable
Preserving Brain Function
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No smoking
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Moderate exercise
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Maintain healthy diet
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Weight control
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Routine medical/dental care
• Maintain cardiovascular health
• Blood pressure control
• Social support network
• Continue activities challenging brain
• Mentally healthy
Reversable Causes of Cognitive Decline
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Diabetes, thyroid, kidney disease
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Medication
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Mental health issues
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Sleep disturbances
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Getting lost in familiar places
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Repetitive questions
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Odd or inappropriate behaviors
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Forgetfulness of recent events
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Repeated falls or loss of balance
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Personality change
More Than Normal Aging
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Decline in planning and organization
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Changes in diet/eating habits
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Changes in hygiene
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Increased apathy
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Changes in language ability, including comprehension