Cognition refers to the processing by the human brain. It has many domains, and includes memory, visual spatial skills, reasoning, language, calculation etc. As one ages, these skills can diminish. The loss of these skills can bring upon oneself a loss of confidence and concern. The loss of the ability to process cognitively could imply “age related memory loss”. At OPAL Clinic, we screen for cognitive deficits. We will help determine conditions including “mild cognitive impairment” and also the different forms of dementia.
Dr Robert Tan has been researching the role of Testosterone in Memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease.
Preventive and therapeutic options will be discussed with our patients. Our goal is to delay and prevent dementia, a devastating disease. Some of the preventive measures can include simple measures as controlling blood pressures, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes. Control of these can reduce the risk of disease states such as multi-infarct dementia. The longitudinal Nun Study has also suggested that preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease may indeed even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The Honolulu Heart Study has also identified diet, exercise, supplements as possible means to decrease the risk of dementia.
Mild cognitive impairment (M.C.I.) is a condition that pre-exists before Alzheimer’s disease. Research has shown that approximately 15% of patients with M.C.I. convert to Alzheimer’s disease each year. Hormonal decline in both men & women during menopause as well as andropause can affect cognition and even moods. After hormonal replacement, many of our patients report feeling “brighter” or “sharper”. We are researching this aspect further in our clinical trials. Other preventive strategies include personalized compounded preparations of Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba and other nutriceuticals besides customized hormones.