Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline represents a spectrum of neurological impairment ranging from subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to advanced dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. It is characterized by the progressive loss of synaptic density and neuronal function. Globally, dementia affects over 55 million people, with cases expected to triple by 2050. The impact is profound, leading to a loss of independence, diminished quality of life, and a significant burden on caregivers and healthcare systems. Early detection and multi-modal functional interventions are critical to slowing or reversing the progression of the decline.

Neurodegenerative conditions associated with cognitive decline include:

Alzheimer’s disease
Vascular dementia
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Parkinson’s disease dementia
Frontotemporal dementia
Alcohol-related dementia

From a pathophysiologic standpoint, cognitive decline is associated with:

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation
Excitotoxicity (excess glutamate signaling)
Protein aggregation (amyloid-β, tau)
Mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired energy production
Reduced neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity
Cerebral hypoperfusion and vascular dysfunction
Blood–brain barrier disruption
Neurotransmitter deficits, particularly acetylcholine
Metabolic dysfunction, including insulin signaling impairment

Importantly, many risk factors for cognitive decline are modifiable, particularly when addressed early.

Are you experiencing...

Memory lapses beyond normal aging

Difficulty learning new information

Reduced attention or mental flexibility

Word-finding difficulty

Slowed thinking or processing speed

Difficulty managing finances or medications

Start Your Recovery.

Schedule a clinical assessment with Dr. Connor Anderson to build your personalized roadmap.

get started today with a free consultation

Common Restoration Protocol

As with all patients, my approach is tailored to you, from discovery and diagnostics, to personalized care plan. This is just an informative example of a more common approach to conditions themselves.

01. Functional Analysis

The functional approach to cognitive decline views brain health as a reflection of systemic physiological status.

Cognitive decline is clinically assessed, not diagnosed by a single laboratory test. The role of testing is to:

Rule out reversible contributors
Identify modifiable risk factors
Support prognosis and monitoring

Assessment typically includes:

Cognitive screening tools
Functional assessment
Medical history and medication review
Focused physical and neurologic examination
Targeted laboratory testing
Referral for neuroimaging when indicated

Cognitive Screening Tools (Context-Dependent):

MoCA – preferred for mild cognitive impairment (early detection)
MMSE or Mini-Cog – useful when functional impairment is present

02. Introduction to Care

Management of cognitive decline emphasizes:

Risk reduction and prevention
Slowing progression
Preserving functional independence
Reducing complications

Interventions are most effective before dementia is established. Once dementia is diagnosed, the focus shifts toward supportive and safety-focused care, rather than reversal.

03. Pillars of Improvement

Nutrition (Prevention-Focused)

Multiple dietary paradigms exist with the same key principles:

Emphasis on vegetables (especially leafy greens), berries, nuts, legumes, fish, olive oil
Limitations of ultra-processed foods and excess saturated fats
Avoid overly restrictive diets in established dementia (malnutrition risk)

Dietary patterns associated with reduced cognitive decline risk include:

Mediterranean Diet (MeDi) - Observational studies show a 19–26% reduction in dementia risk with higher adherence.
DASH Diet - Associated with up to 39% risk reduction at highest adherence, particularly when combined with exercise.
MIND Diet (MeDi + DASH) - Observational studies demonstrate up to 53% relative risk reduction in dementia incidence.

Exercise

Associated with increased hippocampal volume, improved connectivity, and better cognitive scores.

Sleep Hygiene

Disturbed sleep increases neurodegenerative risk.

Cognitive Engagement

Regular mental activity (reading, games, learning) associated with ~40% reduced Alzheimer’s risk.

Social Engagement

Social isolation increases dementia risk by 40–50%; social interaction is mildly protective.

Sauna

Frequent dry sauna use (4–7×/week) has been associated with ~66% lower dementia risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cognitive Decline

Is forgetfulness just a normal part of getting older?

While age is a risk factor, significant memory loss and executive dysfunction are not normal parts of aging. They indicate underlying physiological imbalances, such as chronic inflammation or metabolic distress, that require investigation.

Can dementia be reversed?

Current evidence supports prevention and slowing progression rather than reversal.

When is medical referral required?

Rapid decline, early onset, focal neurologic signs, or safety concerns warrant medical referral and imaging.

Are supplements effective alone?

They are most effective when combined with lifestyle, nutrition, and risk-factor management.