Are changes in memory simply part of getting older?

This easy-to-understand article from the US National Institute on Aging explains cognitive health and the many things that can affect our ability to think, learn and remember.

What you’ll learn

Cognitive health can be influenced by:

• Physical health and chronic conditions
• Medications and medication interactions
• Sleep
• Hearing and vision loss
• Depression, anxiety and stress
• Nutrition and physical activity
• Mental stimulation
• Social connection

Not every memory problem means dementia. Poor sleep, medication side effects, depression, infection and other health conditions can also affect thinking—and some causes may be treatable.

HEAL takeaway

Changes in memory and thinking should not automatically be dismissed as “just getting older.” Understanding cognitive health helps us recognise changes and know when it is time to speak with a health professional.

Read about cognitive health and ageing here