It can be tough to witness your loved one’s cognitive health declining due to age. But it is vital to educate yourself so that you can identify common warning signs and take the necessary actions to help them in tough times. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common cognitive problems and learn how senior living communities in New Orleans, LA, help older adults with cognitive difficulties!
What Causes Cognitive Decline in Older Adults?
Cognitive impairment, like many other issues in the older population, is usually “multifactorial.” Here are some of the most common causes of cognitive decline in older adults:
- Medication side-effects
- Metabolic imbalances
- Hormone issues
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Delusions
- Psychiatric illness
- Substance abuse or withdrawal
- Damage to brain neurons due to an injury or neurodegenerative condition
- Infections
What Are the Common Cognitive Problems in Older Adults?
As we age, we face many issues, both mentally and physically. Sometimes the feeling of isolation and uncertainty about the future can affect our cognitive health more than our physical health. These are some of the common cognitive issues faced by a lot of older adults:
- Alzheimer’s
- Dementia
- Delirium
- Stroke
- Substance-induced cognitive impairment
How Can You Tell if a Loved One Has Cognitive Issues?
It can be difficult to watch your loved ones struggle with their memories. Here are some common indications of cognitive deterioration in older adults:
- Mood or behavioral changes
- Memory issues
- Not recognizing familiar locations or people
- Change in visual perception or vision
- Repeating stories or questions
- Difficulty in finding the “correct words”
- Slow in understanding new information
- Difficulty in making choices and applying judgment
- Misplacing stuff more often
How Can We Assist Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment?
Although you cannot change someone’s family history or age, you can encourage them to adopt healthy choices that may help avoid or improve memory loss.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats can benefit both your brain and your heart. Maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent illnesses that lead to cognitive impairment, such as diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.
Exercise on a Regular Basis
Exercise lowers your chances of having cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and high blood pressure, which are all risk factors for cognitive and memory issues. Encourage your loved ones to practice low-impact workouts like yoga, simple stretches, or even a stroll around the block to boost blood flow to the brain and keep their minds alert.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep enables your brain to rest and recuperate. It also aids in memory consolidation. Sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of cognitive deterioration and dementia.
Socialize With Others
Socialization can help prevent depression and anxiety. Both of these can lead to memory loss. Look for opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones, friends, and acquaintances.
Keep a Close Eye on Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is linked to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Controlling your blood pressure can help reduce the likelihood of memory-related problems and keep you healthy.
If you think that it’s time to get help taking care of your loved ones, reach out to our senior living community today!
