Final answer:
In old age, which begins in the mid-60s, cognitive decline is common, with impairments like Alzheimer's disease being more prevalent. Around 15% of older adults are affected by some cognitive changes, and various strategies, such as staying mentally and physically active, can help delay this decline. Healthy lifestyle choices and cognitive rehabilitation methods can also support cognitive health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognitive Decline in Old Age
As people enter old age, starting in their mid-60s, they often experience various physical and cognitive changes. This period is marked by increased vulnerability to serious illnesses like cancer and pneumonia due to a less efficient immune system. A significant concern for many in this age group is the loss of cognitive abilities. Approximately 15% of older adults may experience cognitive changes indicative of mild cognitive impairment, and nearly half of individuals over 85 show signs of it.
The number of brain cells decreases as one ages, leading to potential declines in fluid intelligence, which includes information processing abilities, reasoning, and memory. This late-life decline contrasts with our crystallized intelligence, which may hold steady or even improve over time. To help delay or mitigate cognitive decline, active engagement in physical and mental activities is recommended. Disorders such as Alzheimer's disease become more common in old age, characterized by gradual and severe losses of mental function, which can range from memory loss to more severe deficits such as an inability to walk, talk, or eat independently.
Despite the challenges of aging and the potential for cognitive decline, there are strategies such as cognitive rehabilitation that may help offset these declines. Furthermore, embracing a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet like the Mediterranean diet and minimizing exposure to environmental risk factors could also be beneficial for cognitive health in old age.