Brain health is an increasing public health priority in the US, and in our Vermont communities. The proportion of Vermonters over the age of 65 is continuing to increase, which means that more people will be impacted by memory loss, thinking problems and dementia.
Brain health refers to one’s ability to remember, learn, play, concentrate and, generally, have a clear, active mind. This includes things like information management, logic, judgment and perspective. Brain health is influenced by several factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and substance use.
As we age, these abilities naturally change and it is normal to experience slower thinking speeds, trouble multitasking or occasionally forgetting things (i.e., misplacing items, forgetting a name you just learned, etc.).
Some older adults have more memory or thinking problems than others their age. This condition is called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. The risk of developing MCI increases as someone gets older. Conditions such as diabetes, depression, and stroke may increase a person’s risk. Those with MCI may have a greater risk of developing dementia.
More serious problems -- like Alzheimer's disease, early-onset Alzheimer's, dementia with lewy body, frontotemporal dementia, and other dementias -- are often noticed when symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. As many as 40% of dementia cases can be delayed or prevented, and it helps to know what to look out for and when to see a doctor.
People with one or more of the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s are encouraged to speak with their doctor. An early diagnosis provides the best chance for treatment, planning for the future and cost savings. As an example, people who are diagnosed in an earlier stage are able to take steps that can ease the concerns of themselves and their loved ones, such as taking part in treatment decisions, plans, and perhaps participating in a clinical study or trial.
Vermonters aged 65 or older are eligible to schedule a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit with their primary care provider. A cognitive screening and Health Risk Assessment are done at the visit. Together, you can update your Personalized Prevention Plan based on your results.
There are several factors that put people at greater risk for dementia. Identifying and addressing risk factors helps to delay or prevent its onset. If you have any of the following risk factors speak with your doctor about prevention or management.
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