Psychogerontologist: Memory Care Involves More Than Just Puzzles

Small memory lapses are common with age, but when they begin to affect daily life, it signals the need for professional consultation, according to psychogerontologist Yasmin Bellani.

Bellani, who specializes in gerontology and neuropsicology for older adults, distinguishes between expected aging changes and potential cognitive decline. She notes that forgetting where keys are is different from forgetting their purpose, and struggling to find a word differs from not understanding a conversation.

Key indicators of concern include difficulties with activities previously managed easily, such as managing finances, following recipes, or navigating familiar places. Bellani stresses that memory can be affected by stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, medications, or social isolation. Persistent changes warrant a neurocognitive evaluation.

Contrary to older beliefs, maintaining brain health requires more than just puzzles like crosswords or word searches. Bellani emphasizes that the brain retains its capacity for lifelong learning through neuroplasticity, which needs stimulation. The most effective strategies involve regular physical activity, active social lives, learning new skills, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing health conditions like hypertension and diabetes.