Lifestyle Read Time: 3 min

Avoiding Cognitive Decline

Of those aged 65 and older, 15 to 20 percent have mild cognitive impairment. People living with mild cognitive impairment are more likely to develop Alzheimers, and almost two-thirds of people currently living with Alzheimers are women.1

There are three basic forms of cognitive decline associated with aging:2

  • Age-related changes in memory, which are a natural consequence of aging.
  • Mild Cognitive Impairment, which involves mild memory loss such as forgetting important events or appointments, or an inability or difficulty with finding the right word in a conversation.
  • Dementia, which includes Alzheimer’s disease, is a chronic, progressive, irreversible and comprehensive cognitive impairment that may affect daily functioning.

There are a range of risk factors that can lead to cognitive decline, including:3

  • Increased age
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Smoking
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Physical and mental inactivity
  • Chronic stress
  • Medical conditions, such as diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
  • Low social involvement

Strategies to Help Manage Cognitive Decline

Intellectual Stimulation

Reading, learning a musical instrument, and playing cards or board games are all activities that stimulate the brain and may reduce cognitive decline.

Exercise

Staying physically active can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help eliminate some of the medical conditions that are risk factors.

Low-Fat Diet

A nutritious diet, low in fat, may help reduce contributory risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.3

A Sound Night’s Sleep

It’s normal for sleeping difficulties to emerge with age, but insufficient sleep can impair memory and learning. Going to bed and waking up at the same time can help. However, if you have a sleep disorder, consider seeking qualified assistance.

Stay Social

Staying engaged with friends and family stimulates the brain. If you live alone or have limited social ties, look to build up contact with neighbors and social groups.

Talk to Your Doctor

It’s best not to self-diagnose or treat yourself if you think you are suffering from cognitive impairment. Visit your doctor to explain your symptoms and let him or her assess your condition and recommend the necessary treatment and counseling.

1. Alzheimer's Association, 2020
2. ClevelandClinic.org, 2019
3. MayoClinic.org, 2020

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

How Women Can Prepare For Retirement

How Women Can Prepare For Retirement

Are women prepared for a 20-year retirement?

What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions?

What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions?

This article can be a helpful guide when begin preparing for education expenses.

Impact of Taxes and Inflation

Impact of Taxes and Inflation

Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Variable Universal Life Insurance

Variable Universal Life is permanent insurance in which the policyholder directs how premiums are invested.

Retirement Income and the Traditional Portfolio

Experiencing negative returns early in retirement can potentially undermine the sustainability of your assets.

Retirement Questions That Have Nothing to Do With Money

Things to consider before retirement.

View all articles

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Estimate the total cost in today's dollars of various mortgage alternatives.

Saving for Retirement

This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.

View all calculators

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

View all presentations

Rightsizing for Retirement

What does your home really cost?

Retirement and Quality of Life

Asking the right questions about how you can save money for retirement without sacrificing your quality of life.

Timing Your Retirement

This short video illustrates why knowing when to retire can be a crucial part of your strategy.

View all videos