Cognitive decline

What is Cognitive Decline?

Cognitive decline refers to the gradual worsening of cognitive abilities like memory, thinking, reasoning, and judgment over time. As we age, it's normal to experience some mild cognitive decline, like occasionally forgetting names or where you put your keys. However, more severe issues like dementia and Alzheimer's disease represent abnormal cognitive decline.

Some key things to know about cognitive decline:

• It's a spectrum. Decline can range from normal age-associated memory impairment to severe impairments like dementia. The boundary between normal and abnormal decline isn't always clear.


• Many factors influence risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and medical issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. Managing these can help reduce risk.


• Early signs can include memory lapses, difficulty learning new information, struggling to follow conversations, and problems with planning.


• Diagnosing the cause of decline requires a medical evaluation to rule out treatable conditions like vitamin deficiencies, medications side effects, thyroid disorders, and depression.


• Treatments depend on the cause but can include medications, cognitive training, lifestyle changes, and sometimes brain stimulation.

If you're concerned about decline either for yourself or a loved one, I recommend scheduling an evaluation at Hormone Health Center. Our caring medical team can provide cutting-edge testing to determine if hormone imbalances or other treatable factors are contributing to your symptoms. We create fully customized treatment plans that combine bioidentical hormones, nutrition, and cognitive stimulation to help you reclaim your mental sharpness. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consult today to ask our experts if our treatments might be right for your situation.

To help reduce your risk of abnormal decline and promote lifelong cognitive health:

• Eat a healthy diet high in vegetables, berries, fish, and good fats


• Exercise regularly to improve blood flow to your brain


• Get enough sleep and manage stress


• Stay socially engaged and mentally active


• Have yearly checkups to control risk factors like diabetes and hypertension

In summary, some cognitive decline is normal with aging but more pronounced decline or impairments that disrupt daily life may require medical evaluation. Prevention and early intervention are key to maintaining brain health. Hormone Health Center can help diagnose and address declines related to hormone deficiencies or imbalances. Let our specialists create a personalized brain health plan for you!