Cognitive decline - Renew Medical Center

Cognitive Decline: Understanding the Gradual Loss of Mental Abilities

Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of cognitive abilities such as memory, language, thinking, and judgment. As people age, some experience mild cognitive impairment which can increase the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease later on. Key aspects of cognitive decline include:

• Memory loss - Forgetting recent events or conversations, misplacing items often
• Difficulty learning - Trouble retaining new information or learning new skills
• Language problems - Struggling to follow conversations, remember words or names
• Decreased judgment - Making questionable or unsafe decisions about money or health
• Confusion - Getting lost in familiar places, losing track of dates/seasons

While some cognitive decline is normal with aging, significant or rapidly worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor at Renew Medical Center. Early intervention for reversible causes and disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's may help slow further decline. Maintaining an active lifestyle both physically and mentally may also help preserve cognitive abilities into old age.