Mental Acuity May Increase Rate of Cognitive Decline

A new study shows that engaging in intellectually stimulating activities can ward off Alzheimer’s symptoms, but once the disease hits, the decline is more rapid among the mentally sharp than it is in those who are not.

The study was conducted by Rush University Medical Center in Chicago by a team led by study author Robert Wilson, professor of neurological sciences.
 
At the outset of the research, all 1,157 participants were Alzheimer’s free; their assessments formed a baseline reading, which was compared to a six-year follow-up analysis.  At that point, the seniors were checked every three years.

They were assessed based on a 5 point scale that rated activities such as listening to the radio, reading, playing games, visiting museums, etc.  The more mentally challenging the activity, the more points it was assigned.

The good news is that living an intellectually rich life staves off symptoms of the disease by 52%; the researchers admit that rather than keeping the disease completely at bay, mentally stimulating activities hide the disease from becoming apparent until later.

However, once Alzheimer’s hit, the decline was increased 42% in those who were cognitively advanced.

Despite the fast, downward spiral, the researchers contend that even though cognitive acuity may not ward off the disease completely, it can delay some of its ravages for months or years.

Per USA Today, the lead author says that remaining cognitively fit is a “universal good thing.  It’s good for the affected family, good for their family and friends, and good for our public health system.”

The Role of Medication

In addition to cognitive acumen, the Alzheimer’s Association emphasizes that certain medications, if taken at the right time, can delay cognitive decline by up to 50%.

Cognitive decline as a result of aging is different than displaying signs of dementia.  The former, which is referred to as mild cognitive impairment, does not lead to an inability to function on a daily basis.  Those who have true Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia will ultimately no longer be able to manage household chores and hobbies.

And daily function is the key predictor, according to the Alzheimer’s association.  In fact the Association recommends not waiting until a loved one can no longer pay bills, make coffee or put a necktie on straight, as it may be too late to mitigate some level of cognitive damage. 

Alzheimer’s is a demanding and ultimately fatal taskmaster, causing brain cells to die because of some unknown x factor that allows the build-up plaques and tangles in the brain.  In order to determine what the particular anomaly that drives Alzheimer’s rapacious advancement is, researchers urge loved ones to be aware of MCI enough that they will go ahead and make an appointment with a physician to determine a proper course of action.