In the two generations prior to the baby boomers, the “greatest generation” and the “war babies,” cognitive scores had been going up. However, a new study shows that may no longer be the case. Unfortunately, cognitive scores seem to be declining.
About the Study
For the study, the researchers used data gathered using the University of Michigan’s Health and Retirement Survey, which was conducted between 1996 and 2014. People who took the survey responded to it every 2 years. All participants were aged 51 or older. The participants all completed cognition tests that involved naming objects, counting to 100 by 7s, and word recollection.
The results of the study indicated that baby boomers began showing cognitive decline at an earlier age than previous generations, with cognitive decline already beginning between the ages of 50 and 54. The decline occurred regardless of ethnicity, financial status, or education. This is significant because in other studies people who were more educated or who had more money typically aren’t as affected by illnesses and mortality rates.
The concern with the results of this study is that an increase in rates of cognitive decline could also mean an increase in the percentage of people with dementia as baby boomers age.
Symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment
The cognitive decline indicated in this study may be what doctors refer to as mild cognitive impairment or MCI. MCI is a cognitive decline that is worse than what is typical with aging, but not so severe as to be considered dementia. Signs of cognitive decline may include:
- Forgetting things more often than is normal.
- Forgetting appointments or social engagements.
- Having trouble following the thread of a conversation or the plot of a book or movie.
- Getting lost in familiar environments.
- Difficulty making plans or following steps in a task.
- Using poor judgment.
The relatives and friends of older adults with MCI usually notice these kinds of changes first. They may also notice mood or behavioral changes, such as depression, anxiety, and irritability.
If your aging relative suffers from mild cognitive impairment, home care can help them to manage life with the condition. Home care providers can drive the elder adult to places they need to go, which can prevent them from getting lost. Home care providers can also assist with tasks like following a recipe or paying bills. In addition, a home care provider can offer reminders for appointments, taking medications, and other things the senior needs to do.
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Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
