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Health Matters

Keeping Your Brain FIT

By Dr. Camilo Ruiz, DO, PA

s we age, our brain undergoes changes affecting Decreased Processing Speed: Older adults may find that their
memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. ability to process information and respond quickly diminishes.
AWhile some degree of this cognitive change is a Impaired Executive Function: Executive functions, including
normal part of aging, significant decline can interfere with planning, organizing, and problem-solving, can become less
daily life and independence. Understanding the factors efficient with age.
contributing to cognitive decline and adopting strategies to
mitigate its effects can help us maintain mental function and Increased Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Conditions
overall quality of life. In other words, keeping your brain fit such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia
can greatly enhance your mental health. become more prevalent with age, contributing to significant
cognitive decline.
Understanding Cognitive Decline with Aging
Strategies to Mitigate Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline involves gradual changes in mental
functions such as memory, reasoning, and executive functions. While some cognitive decline is inevitable, various strategies
As we age, many of us might experience: can help mitigate symptoms and maintain mental health:
Memory Lapses: Mild forgetfulness, such as misplacing keys Engage in Regular Physical Exercise: Physical activity is strongly
or forgetting appointments, is common. However, more severe linked to cognitive health. Exercise improves blood flow to
memory loss, such as difficulty recalling recent events or the brain, reduces inflammation, and promotes the release of
conversations, can be concerning. growth factors that support brain health. Activities like walking,

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