Brain health Archive

A 2024 study suggests that older adults who fall for financial scams may have brain changes associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Sudden memory lapses could be natural aspects of aging or early signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). With MCI, memory loss is noticeable but usually does not impede the ability to carry out daily functions. A screening test from a doctor or more advanced testing (such as brain MRI or PET scans) from a neurologist can help identify potential cognitive problems so people can seek appropriate treatment.

Having an extremely low LDL level from aggressive cholesterol-lowering therapy was not associated with cognitive impairment, according to a 2024 study.

A 2024 study of more than 10,000 dementia-free people found that fitting the recommended amount of weekly exercise into one or two sessions was associated with a similar reduction in dementia risk as exercising throughout the work week.

Eating a traditional Mediterranean diet or green Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes more foods high in plant foods, including green tea and duckweed, may help reduce brain shrinkage, a 2024 study suggests.

About three million American adults have epilepsy, which is marked by recurring seizures. But far more people will have a seizure that strikes for another reason. Seizure triggers include high fever, head injury, extreme lack of sleep, blood sugar fluctuations, alcohol or drug misuse, certain medications, brain infections, stroke, and eclampsia. People can help someone having a seizure by moving them away from hazards, preventing choking, and tracking details. Most seizures are not a medical emergency.

A 2024 study suggested that closely following the MIND diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods and limited animal products and saturated fats, may slow cognitive decline compared to other eating patterns.