For more information about the author, click to view their website: Archwell Health
Does it take a little more time to find the word you're looking for, or to remember someone's name? Has multitasking become a challenge? If so, you're not alone — these are common brain changes for older adults, and they may be nothing to worry about.
But how do you know what's normal and what's not? And how can you boost brain health as you get older? Keep reading to find out.
The Aging Brain: What's Normal, What's Not
While the following issues can be irksome, they're associated with normal aging:
These issues, on the other hand, are not part of the normal aging process:
If you're experiencing any of the latter issues, talk to your ArchWell Health team to get to the bottom of it.
A Closer Look at Brain Health
To better understand the normal aging process, it helps to know that your brain changes throughout your life, which impacts cognitive function. The brain starts to shrink in middle age, and the rate of shrinkage increases by age 60. Consider this: A typical 90-year-old brain weighs 1,100 to 1,200 grams — at least 100 grams less than a typical 40-year-old brain.
Other common changes in the aging brain include:
But while these changes can affect brain function in healthy older people, they don't have the final say. Many older adults have larger vocabularies, deeper understanding of the meaning of words and greater knowledge than younger adults do. In fact, verbal abilities and abstract reasoning actually improve as we age. Older adults can also form new memories and learn new skills — even if it takes a little extra time. The aging brain can adapt and change, giving you the opportunity to rise to new challenges in your golden years.
Understanding Cognitive Decline
Keep in mind that while some degree of cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, dementia is not. Dementia involves a loss of cognitive function that interferes with your everyday activities and quality of life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia in people over age 65.
There are three stages of Alzheimer's disease: mild, moderate and severe:
The causes of Alzheimer's disease likely include a combination of age-related changes in the brain, along with genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. But several strategies may help reduce the speed of cognitive decline, including engaging in mentally stimulating activities, maintaining social connections and prioritizing physical activity.
Cognitive Exercises for Older Adults
You've probably heard of the “use it or lose it" principle. When applied to senior brain aging, it's a reminder that if you don't use an area of your brain for a while, you can lose that cognitive function altogether.
Don't let that happen to you! There are many cognitive exercises to help boost your brain health and improve memory. Here are some to consider.
Brain-training games
One large study found that doing just 15 minutes of brain-training activities at least five days a week improved brain function, including working memory, short-term memory and problem-solving skills. Researchers used activities from the free site Lumosity that focus on the ability to recall details and quickly memorize patterns.
Many sites and apps offer these types of brain games. If you're an AARP member, you can take advantage of free access to Staying Sharp®, an award-winning digital program that includes a variety of engaging games that test your focus, recall and word skills.
If physical games like bridge, chess or Scrabble are more your speed, you can still reap mental rewards. Just call a few friends, break out the game box and get ready for a good time (while simultaneously benefiting your brain).
Your local ArchWell Health center also hosts bingo, card game events and more. And you don't have to be a member to join these fun classes and activities.
Physical activity
Your whole body is interconnected, which is why physical exercise directly impacts your brain health. Regular exercise reduces the risk of age-related decline and protects the brain against degeneration. It can also improve your memory, cognition and motor coordination.
Try one of these simple and fun aerobic activities to strengthen your body and your mind:
Bonus: You can easily do these activities with a friend, which enhances the brain benefits — a recent study showed that people who had more frequent social contact had a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
A Word from ArchWell Health
Remember, dementia doesn't go hand in hand with aging. Consider the case of cognitive super agers. These 80-and-over marvels boast memory performance comparable to people 20 to 30 years younger. Enriching experiences — as well as plenty of social engagement — may contribute to their successful senior brain aging.
So don't let cognitive changes have the last word. You have the power to boost your brain health! Reach out to your ArchWell Health care team to help you create your healthy aging plan today.
Elevating Compassion CareAging with grace and vigor is challenging. Being a caregiver for an aging loved one maybe even more challenging. Here are some innovations to help those you love are able to care for themselves and lengthen their independence.The Cassia Learning Lab director, Kate Ingalls-Maloney, suggests listing your concerns and then deciding, with some help, which technologies fit those situations. For example, is there a concern about leaving the oven or a burner on? Perhaps theres a worry about falling in the shower. On occasion, are daily medications forgotten? Be very honest with yourself and your family about what causes hesitation or concern. Then make your list.The top two reasons people move from their homes are medication errors and falls. Insurance companies may be more likely to cover home modifications and medication management devices that are designed to prevent these two situations. Waivers and private pay are other ways to obtain home adaptations or devices, and some vendors offer a try before you buy policy.Innovations to support seniors independence and peace of mind for their caregivers.Medication management systems There are many different kinds of medication reminders and dispensing systems: From a simple flip-top dispenser to a lockable electronic dispenser that can give alerts to both the person taking the meds and to his/her remote caregiver.Fall prevention innovations Easy to install lighting, with or without motion detection, can be affordable and also very effective. The adhesive-backed LED motion lights can easily mark a trail to the bathroom at night and provide a safe path. Other strategically placed night lights or touch lamps can also help to avoid falls.Grab bars systems In the bathroom, grab bars can be installed according to the users mobility needs. Newer models incorporate towel bars and toilet paper dispensers. Note: Its important to consult your physical therapist when installing grab bars. Non-skid flooring is another great way to help prevent bathroom falls.Wearable pendants or watches There is a variety of these on the market. They can detect falls automatically or be triggered to summon help if a fall occurs. In addition, there is now a wearable (but not noticeable) tracking device that inserts into a shoe or boot so that someone who tends to wander can be located using GPS technology.Safety in the kitchen There is no need to fear to leave the oven on if you have an automatic appliance shut-off sensor system. They can be installed in both electric and gas ranges.My mother is 93 and has very arthritic hands. Ive been clipping her nails for her. (I bought her a ClipDifferent Pro) and it will allow her to be independent when it comes to doing her nails. NancyFingernail care For self-care, the ClipDifferent Pro automatic fingernail clipper and Lil Nipper automatic fingernail clipper provides a way to safely and independently clip fingernails with no risk of harm or mess. Shop for Lil Nipper or ClipDifferent Pro here.Home voice activation systems Whole-home voice activation systems like Amazons Alexa or Google home, when installed correctly, can be very helpful for controlling thermostats, lighting, doorbells, TV, or calls for help.
In a world increasingly defined by digital interaction, the image of older adults eagerly embracing technology might seem like a recent development. Yet, as we delve deeper into this digital age, it becomes increasingly apparent that seniors are not only adapting to technology but are finding profound ways to leverage it for their social and emotional well-being. Email, text messaging, video conferencing, social mediathese are not just tools of the younger generation. They are lifelines that connect older adults to the people and communities they cherish. While the idea of navigating these digital channels may seem daunting to some seniors, the rewards of staying connected through technology far outweigh the initial fears. One of the most accessible and widely used forms of digital communication for seniors is email. With its simplicity and ubiquity, email has become a staple for staying in touch with loved ones near and far. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 86% of seniors aged 65 and older use email regularly, with many citing it as their preferred method of communication for keeping in touch with family and friends. These statistics are not just impressive; they are a testament to the adaptability and eagerness of seniors to embrace the digital age. And with projections indicating that the number of older adults using email is set to increase by 15% over the next decade, the trend towards digital communication among seniors shows no signs of slowing down. Text messaging, with its brevity and immediacy, has also emerged as a favored mode of communication among seniors. While some may initially balk at the idea of typing on a small screen, the convenience and intimacy of text messaging quickly win them over. According to the same Pew study, 67% of seniors now use text messaging on a regular basis, with usage steadily increasing over the past decade. These figures are not just remarkable; they represent a seismic shift in how seniors are embracing technology to stay connected with their loved ones. And with projections indicating that text messaging among older adults is expected to grow by 20% over the next 10 years, it's clear that seniors are not just catching up with technologythey're leading the way. Video conferencing takes digital communication to a whole new level, offering seniors the opportunity to see and hear their loved ones in real-time. Whether it's a weekly family gathering or a virtual birthday celebration, video calls bring people together in ways that were once unimaginable. A report by AARP found that 42% of adults aged 50 and older use video calling platforms like Zoom or FaceTime to stay connected with family and friends, with usage spiking during the COVID-19 pandemic. These statistics are not just impressive; they are a testament to the transformative power of technology in bridging the gap between generations. And with projections indicating that the number of older adults using video conferencing is set to double over the next 20 years, it's clear that virtual communication is here to stay. And then there's social media, the virtual town square where people of all ages come together to share stories, memories, and moments. While some seniors may initially approach social media with skepticism, many quickly discover its potential to reconnect with old friends, discover new interests, and stay informed about the lives of their loved ones. According to the Pew Research Center, 73% of adults aged 65 and older use social media regularly, with Facebook being the most popular platform among this demographic. These figures are not just notable; they represent a paradigm shift in how seniors are engaging with technology to stay connected with the world around them. And with projections indicating that social media usage among older adults is expected to increase by 25% over the next decade, it's clear that seniors are embracing digital communication with open arms. Of course, it's natural for seniors to have concerns about using technology, especially when it comes to online safety and privacy. Just as in the physical world, there are risks and precautions to consider in the digital realm. Seniors must be vigilant about protecting their personal information, avoiding scams, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of online security. But with proper guidance and support, these concerns can be addressed, allowing seniors to reap the benefits of technology without undue worry. Educational resources, community programs, tech-savvy family members, and companies that specifically help older adults and seniors understand and use technology can all play a role in empowering seniors to navigate the digital world with confidence and competence. Ultimately, the benefits of staying connected through technology far outweigh the risks. For seniors, the ability to maintain meaningful relationships, stay informed, and engage with the world around them is worth the effort of learning new skills and adapting to new technologies. Whether it's sending an email, sharing a text message, or joining a video call, every digital interaction is an opportunity to strengthen bonds, foster connection, and enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones. In an age where technology often dominates the conversation, it's heartening to see older adults not only embracing digital communication but thriving in it. With each virtual hug and digital dialogue, seniors are rewriting the narrative of aging, proving that connection knows no age limits and that the bonds of love and friendship are as strong as ever in the digital age. And with the continued growth and adoption of technology among older adults, the future of senior connectivity has never looked brighter.
Falling temperatures mean illnesses such as the common cold, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV, are starting to spread. Combined with the still-present COVID-19 virus, these illnesses can lead to hospitalization for older adults, especially in those already diagnosed with heart and lung conditions or who are otherwise immunocompromised. This means its time to think about how these people will protect their health this winter. Getting the flu shot is one of the best ways to do so.It is important for vulnerable seniors to receive their flu shot as soon as possible.Ive seen patients for more than 20 years and have heard a variety of concerns about the flu vaccine. The most common worry Ive encountered is that the shot will give you the flu. While there can be mild side effects from the flu shot such as fever, aches or fatigue, the vaccine itself will not give you the flu. In fact, adults who get the flu shot are much less likely to get the flu.Although no vaccine prevents illness 100% of the time, if you are vaccinated and still get the flu, you are much more likely to have a mild case of the illness. Last years data showed that the flu vaccination significantly reduced flu-related hospitalization among adults.Of course, you should talk with your personal primary care doctor about how the vaccine fits into your care plan. If you are over 60 years old and on Medicare, ArchWell Health providers are available to answer questions about the flu shot and other health concerns specific to older adults.If you are a senior with a respiratory or heart condition such as COPD, asthma or a heart condition, or are actively receiving cancer treatments that make you immunocompromised, your doctor may also suggest you receive the RSV vaccine. For the first time, the RSV vaccine is available to older adults to protect them against this viral illness that can lead to pneumonia and hospitalization.Many local pharmacies make it easy and affordable to get your yearly vaccines and may offer the latest COVID-19 booster.Keeping our communities healthy this winter is a communal effort. Getting the annual flu shot and other important vaccines is a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Welcome to ArchWell Health, where we believe that the little things change everything. Our mission is simple: to help our members lead healthier lives through superior senior primary care and stronger patient-to-doctor relationships. As an ArchWell Health member, you'll discover numerous reasons to love being a part of our community: More Time with Your Doctor: Enjoy regular check-ups and routine screenings to catch problems early and prevent them from becoming bigger issues down the road. Personalized Wellness Plans: Every aspect of our care is designed to contribute to a healthier and happier you, with personalized wellness plans tailored to your unique needs. Dedicated Care: From same-day appointments to personalized wellness plans, we're dedicated to ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. Our Approach Our approach to primary care revolves around you, the member. We believe that good health starts with a great doctor-patient relationship, and our team of providers is not only highly educated and skilled but also friendly, understanding, and committed to helping you thrive. Comprehensive Services As your primary care provider, we handle a wide range of healthcare needs, including: Routine wellness checks Lab work Acute care when you're feeling unwell On-site referrals to licensed social workers Cardiology telehealth services for comprehensive care Our On-Site Health Services Personalized primary care Convenient cardiology telehealth appointments Preventive health screenings Nutrition education Routine lab work Vaccinations Care management Social work referrals Your Partner in Wellness At ArchWell Health, we're not just your healthcare provider we're your partner in wellness. Join us and experience the difference our personalized, compassionate care can make in your life. Find an ArchWell location near you and become a member today. Your journey to better health starts here.
Welcome to ArchWell Health, where we believe that the little things change everything. Our mission is simple: to help our members lead healthier lives through superior senior primary care and stronger patient-to-doctor relationships. As an ArchWell Health member, you'll discover numerous reasons to love being a part of our community: More Time with Your Doctor: Enjoy regular check-ups and routine screenings to catch problems early and prevent them from becoming bigger issues down the road. Personalized Wellness Plans: Every aspect of our care is designed to contribute to a healthier and happier you, with personalized wellness plans tailored to your unique needs. Dedicated Care: From same-day appointments to personalized wellness plans, we're dedicated to ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. Our Approach Our approach to primary care revolves around you, the member. We believe that good health starts with a great doctor-patient relationship, and our team of providers is not only highly educated and skilled but also friendly, understanding, and committed to helping you thrive. Comprehensive Services As your primary care provider, we handle a wide range of healthcare needs, including: Routine wellness checks Lab work Acute care when you're feeling unwell On-site referrals to licensed social workers Cardiology telehealth services for comprehensive care Our On-Site Health Services Personalized primary care Convenient cardiology telehealth appointments Preventive health screenings Nutrition education Routine lab work Vaccinations Care management Social work referrals Your Partner in Wellness At ArchWell Health, we're not just your healthcare provider we're your partner in wellness. Join us and experience the difference our personalized, compassionate care can make in your life. Find an ArchWell location near you and become a member today. Your journey to better health starts here.