Episode Summary:
Some brain functions decline gradually and normally with advancing age in many people. In some cases, more severe cognitive disorders—Alzheimer’s and other conditions that cause dementia—can develop. Dr Bernick, an expert on the aging brain, discusses these conditions, and on a positive note, he highlights that mental and physical exercises can reduce risk factors for cognitive loss.
Guest:
Charles Bernick M.D., MPH. Clinical Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle WA. Director of Clinical Trials, Memory and Brain Wellness Clinic, University of Washington.
During This Episode We Discuss:
- Defining, comparing, and contrasting normal aging of the brain, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s dementia, and Lewey Body dementia.
- Causes, risk factors, diagnosis, symptom progression, treatment, management, and the current controversy over a newly approved Alzheimer’s drug.
- How prevention critically applies to healthy brain function. The good news is that brain preventive health tactics are no doubt already familiar to you: good sleep (get treated for apnea!), adequate physical and mental activity, social engagement and connection, and a healthy diet.
Quotes (Tweetables):
“In terms of mental exercise, you do get better at what you practice, just as you do physically.”
Dr. Bernick
“If you don’t sleep well, your brain doesn’t do well.”
Dr. Pelman
“Yeah, you know it turns out that what people say, that ‘What’s good for the heart is good for the brain’…. is probably true.”
Dr. Bernick
Recommended Resources:
- Luminosity. Website with lots of brain and cognitive exercises.
- Alzheimer’s Association
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, National Institutes of Health. Detailed educational information and resources
- Alzheimer Centers — check your nearest big city
- Seattle and Puget Sound Area: Memory and Brain Wellness Center, University of Washington. Available to anyone in the community.
Episode Transcript:
Coming soon!!
