Cognitive Reserve – Can We Beat Biology?

Author:  Rhonda Latreille, MBA, CPCA
Founder & CEO
Age-Friendly Business®

Cognitive Reserve –
Can We Beat Biology?

We know we are living longer — but are we living better?  Most would agree that it is not just about adding more years to our life story, it is about making sure those years enriching and rewarding.

Too often, though, we know of friends and family who struggle with cognitive decline as they transition into later years.  Is it inevitable?  Why is it that some individuals seem to navigate this progression better than others?  Is there a secret to stalling or even overcoming cognitive decline?

In the late 1980s, researchers noticed an interesting anomaly.  Some individuals, with significant brain pathology, did not evidence a commensurate decline in overall cognitive functioning while they were alive.  Others, with less brain pathology, showed much greater challenges in their day to day functional capacities.  Clearly, brain pathology in and of itself was not directly associated with the behavioral expression of cognitive function.

This led to the study of ‘Cognitive Reserve.’  Cognitive Reserve (CR) refers to the mind’s resistance to damage to the brain.  Some brains are just better able to compensate for damage, and to establish alternative and efficient ways to ‘get the job done.’ 

Those with higher CR can endure more advanced stages of dementia before their lives are impacted by the disease progression.

Can we Increase our CR?

Much more research needs to be done to determine the factors that contribute toward higher CR. 

Some believe that genetics does in fact influence overall cognitive function, but has a lessor relationship with memory.

While some studies show an association between brain size and cognitive function, not all studies support this theory.

Education is sometimes seen as a ‘protective’ factor, stalling the expression of cognitive decline, but not eliminating the risk.

Cognitively stimulating occupations may contribute toward smarter thinking, with no discernible difference with memory.

Building Cognitive Reserve — Some Lifestyle Tips:

Building CR is a lifetime endeavor.  We need to introduce these behavioral choices with our children to build these lifelong habits. The longer we are exposed to healthy and enriching environments, the greater the likelihood that we can create more CR.  You will notice that the tips do not include a secret ‘magic bullet’ and are fundamental lifestyle habits we know we should incorporate and embrace for both physical and cognitive health.

  • Physical Activity — what is good for the body is good for the brain!  150 minutes of activity per week is recommended.
  • Nutrition — a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean Diet is good for the brain.
  • Cognitive and Social Activity.  Keeping our mind active and challenged.  Keep learning!   Social engagement is also important.  Spend time with others, involve yourself with paid or volunteer work, and reach out and see how you can help others.
  • Moderate your alcohol consumption.
  • Stress Reduction – manage your stress through exercise, meditation or yoga.
  • Get proper sleep – a good 7-8 hours be day.
  • Maintain a sense of purpose and service.

This is a new and exciting area of exploration. 

While the researchers and academics work to understand better how CR is created, we can at least grab onto these lifestyle choices and see if we can ‘beat biology.’

Rhonda Latreille, MBA, CPCA
Founder & CEO
Age-Friendly Business®

Building New Neural Networks

Need to build new networks in your brain?  Challenge yourself and take on new habits.

Here are some tips:

1.  Add mind energy intensive activities.  Choose activities that involve intensive problem solving, self-reflection, strategizing, memorization and decision-making.  Take up a new instrument or learn a new language (especially if you have never done this before!)
2. Repetition — new pathways need to be practiced over and over again to become established.  If it is a particularly complex activity — you may need 3-4 months to establish new pathways.
3. Take care of your physical health to support the creation of new neural pathways.

You can teach an old dog new tricks!

Life Learning

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.”

Anthony J. D’Angelo

You may also like…

Random Acts of Kindness

National Random Acts of Kindness Day & St. Valentine's Day-February's Gifts  Mind: The Power of Random Acts of Kindness – Small Gestures, Big Impact Kindness doesn’t need a reason or an occasion. The simple act of brightening someone’s day is powerful at any age,...

The Gift of Life – A Season of Saving Lives

The Gift of Life – A Season of Saving LivesThe holiday season shines with moments of joy and connection, but imagine the difference we could make if our giving extended beyond wrapped packages to something even more profound: the gift of life. I received a call this...

Honouring Caregiver Appreciation Month

Honouring Caregiver Appreciation MonthNovember is Caregiver Appreciation Month.  Preparing for this article caused me to reflect on my own journey in caregiving. I imagine many of you reading this have your specific stories, each with its unique challenges and gifts....

Gratitude and Together A Thanksgiving Reflection

Gratitude and TogetherA Thanksgiving ReflectionAs Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded of the powerful sense of gratitude that unites us. Can you feel it too? The warmth of loved ones gathering around a table, the aroma of a lovingly prepared meal, and the spirit...

Celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day

Celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day Embrace the Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia On September 21, we recognize World Alzheimer's Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. There are...

Paws and Pals For a Longer and Better Life

  Paws and Pals For a Longer and Better Life Celebrating International Friendship Day and Assistance Dog Week Imagine you're at a cozy café, sipping your favourite beverage, and laughing with a trusted friend. There is joy, comfort, shared stories, and warm memories. ...

Travel Tips Part 2

Image created by AI tool Visual Content Creator PRO — the author has the provenance and copyright Ready to Embark on Your Next Adventure? Travel Tips Part 2Welcome back, intrepid traveller! Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or gearing up for your first adventure...

United Against Elder Abuse:

United Against Elder Abuse: Stories of Strength and Hope"On this Day, I call upon Member States and civil society to strengthen their resolve and redouble their efforts to eliminate all forms of violence and abuse against older people." — UN Secretary-General Ban...

No Longer Here – But Never Forgotten

No Longer Here –But Never Forgotten  A remarkable and cherished woman passed away a few months ago.  She was a mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, mentor, role model, businesswoman, and confidante.  Her name was June, and she was my sister-in-law.  I was blessed...

0 Comments