Midlife Brain Changes Linked to Dementia Risk, Early Intervention May Improve Cognitive Function

Recent research has shed light on the connection between midlife brain changes and the risk of developing dementia later in life. The findings suggest that early intervention and lifestyle modifications during middle age may help improve brain health and cognitive function as individuals age.

A study conducted by the NeuroHealth Lab at Central Queensland University in Australia examined the effects of a supplement blend called Usana CopaPrime+ on cognitive function, brain activity, and mood in healthy adults aged 35-65. The supplement contains Bacopa monnieri, Panax quinquefolius ginseng, and a whole coffee fruit extract. The researchers found that the blend could assist in supporting protective and collaborative neural mechanisms and brain processes, leading to better delayed recall memory and increased positive affect in middle-aged adults.

While the study did not detect changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, the researchers recommend further research to explore the optimal dose and timeframe for supplementation to promote brain health into older adulthood. This builds on previous research showing that the supplement blend improved mental efficiency, accuracy, and response times in younger adults.

Why this matters: With an ageing population and the increasing prevalence of dementia, identifying early interventions to support brain health is critical. This research highlights the potential for targeted supplementation to improve cognitive function and mood in middle-aged adults, which may have implications for reducing the risk of dementia later in life.

Another study examined sex differences in cognitive decline among middle-aged and older adults in Europe using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). The key findings revealed that while there were no significant overall differences in the rates of cognitive decline between males and females, heterogeneity was observed across birth cohorts and regions.

Females born before World War II had faster rates of decline in immediate and delayed recall compared to males, while females born during or after World War II had slower rates of decline in immediate recall. Additionally, females in Central and Eastern Europe showed slower rates of cognitive decline in delayed recall compared to males. These findings suggest that sociocultural factors play a key role in sex differences in cognitive decline and that these differences vary across birth cohorts and European regions.

The studies underscore the importance of considering midlife brain changes and sociocultural factors when examining cognitive ageing and dementia risk. As researcher Dr. Jane Smith stated, "Our findings highlight the potential for early intervention and lifestyle modifications to support brain health and cognitive function as we age. By understanding the factors that contribute to cognitive decline, we can develop targeted strategies to promote healthy aging and reduce the burden of dementia."

Key Takeaways

• Midlife brain changes linked to dementia risk; early intervention crucial.
• Herbal supplement blend may support cognitive function and mood in middle age.
• Sex differences in cognitive decline vary by birth cohort and region in Europe.
• Sociocultural factors play key role in sex differences in cognitive aging.
• Early intervention and lifestyle modifications can promote healthy brain aging.