13 steps against cognitive decline
A healthy brain is crucial for living a longer and fuller life. Yet, in a society that is aging more and more, cognitive decline is a concrete threat. As we age, progressive worsening of cognitive functions can also lead to the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, which greatly impact quality of life.
Once these pathologies begin, few effective treatments are available. Prevention is therefore critical, and primary care can play an important role. Cognitive decline in old age is not inevitable; in fact, by identifying and minimizing the modifiable risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases, it is possible to maintain brain health for a long time. It is crucial for health professionals to promote healthy lifestyles that may protect people against diseases in the long term.
To this end, the American Heart Association (AHA) has published a scientific statement that provides healthcare professionals up-to-date suggestions in the assessment and modification of all risk factors that involve brain health and prevent cognitive decline. There are a total of 13 risk factors, including the 7 factors already considered central to the maintenance of cardiovascular health.
In 2017, the AHA defined the concept of prevention by summarizing the principles of “Life’s Simple 7”, which are seven lifestyle goals for achieving ideal cardiovascular health. The goals include: managing blood pressure, monitoring cholesterol levels, reducing blood sugar, increasing physical activity, eating healthy, losing weight, and quitting smoking. However, recent data indicate that hypertension, diabetes, and smoking in adulthood and middle age increase the odds of cognitive decline in middle age and accelerate cognitive decline in old age.
The new scientific statement suggests that health professionals, especially those in primary care, also consider the following risk factors for cognitive decline. In particular, these are:
- Depression
- Social isolation
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Sleep disorders
- Poor education
- Loss of hearing
In conclusion, the AHA views primary care as a key area for exercising efforts aimed at long-term health maintenance. An approach of this type can provide coordinated and comprehensive care that promotes “Life’s Simple 7” as a guide not just for heart and brain health, but for overall well-being as well.
Reference
Lazar RM, Howard VJ, Kernan WN, Aparicio HJ, Levine DA, Viera AJ, Jordan LC, Nyenhuis DL, Possin KL, Sorond FA, White CL; American Heart Association Stroke Council. A Primary Care Agenda for Brain Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Stroke. 2021 Mar 15:STR0000000000000367. doi: 10.1161/STR.0000000000000367. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33719523.
