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The ripple effect: Impact of cognitive decline across different age groups
Cognitive health, the foundation of our mental abilities, is facing a concerning decline across all age groups.
This decline can manifest as difficulties with memory, focus, learning and problem-solving which can significantly impact daily life. While Alzheimer's disease and dementia are major concerns, this decline extends beyond these specific diagnoses.
A 2020 report by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) in the US revealed a worrying trend: over 12 million adults aged 45 and over reported having difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.1 This translates to a significant portion of the adult population experiencing some degree of cognitive decline, potentially hindering their work performance, social interactions, and overall wellbeing. Similar concerns are echoed in Europe.
A 2021 study published in the European Journal of Neurology found an association between increasing age and a decline in cognitive function, even among healthy individuals without diagnosed conditions.2 These findings highlight the potential for a wider phenomenon impacting cognitive abilities in the general adult population.
Children and the early signs of decline
The issue extends beyond adults. Reports suggest a potential rise in learning difficulties and attention disorders among children. A 2022 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US indicated that over six million children aged 2-17 have received a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).3
This increase necessitates further investigation into potential environmental or lifestyle factors contributing to cognitive challenges in young minds.
Some noted impacts due to decline in cognitive health
Children:
- Difficulty in learning
- Reduced attention span
- Behavioural issues
Adults:
- Reduced work productivity
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disturbance
Elderly:
- Increased risk of dementia
- Depression
- Difficulty with daily living activities
A natural brain performer
The brain is a remarkable organ which consists of interconnected neurons and that serves as the command centre for our entire being, from infancy to old age. It orchestrates a symphony of functions, ranging from basic bodily movements to complex cognitive processes. As we journey through life, our brains undergo a series of transformations.
Young minds Children's brains are in constant flux, forming trillions of connections, while learning and adapting. However, challenges like ADHD or learning disabilities can impact this development.
Maturing minds As we age, memory and processing speed might dip, a natural part of ‘normal cognitive ageing’. But sometimes, this decline becomes more significant, leading to mild cognitive impairment.
Elderly While wisdom often comes with age, dementia can tragically rob individuals of their cognitive abilities, impacting their thinking, behaviour and daily lives.
Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)
The humble herb Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is known as the ‘mindful wonder’. Brahmi has held a cherished place in Ayurveda, India's ancient medicine system. Revered as a ‘Medhya Rasayana’, it is believed to promote longevity, prevent ageing and sharpen the mind. Its leaves, particularly prized for addressing fatigue, nervous breakdown and other imbalances, are often incorporated into formulas supporting memory, focus and a calm disposition.
Various clinical studies of Bacopa monnieri have demonstrated improvements in verbal learning, delayed word recall, memory acquisition and anxiety reduction.4 The herb has been described as a calming cognitive enhancer. The triterpenoid saponins in Brahmi are believed to be responsible for most of the herb's pharmacological actions.5
In a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial involving healthy Australian adults, Bacopa monnieri extract was found to significantly improve memory acquisition and retention compared to a placebo. A similar study conducted, demonstrated the herb's efficacy in enhancing recall and visual retention in older adults.6
Furthermore, research has suggested that Bacopa monnieri extract may be beneficial for children with cognitive challenges. In open-label studies, Bacopa monnieri extract has shown promise in improving symptoms of ADHD and enhancing cognitive function in children with learning disabilities.7
BacoMind™ isn't just any Bacopa extract; it is a natural brain performer formulated with a unique synergy of nine key bioactives. Clinically validated, it supports cognitive health in individuals of all ages, from children to the elderly. With GRAS affirmation, this extract helps in memory, focus attention and recall.
References
1. National Center for Health Statistics (2020). Health, United States, 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2. Peters, J. A., De Craemer, D., Van Boxtel, M. P., & Jolles, D. (2021). Age-related decline in cognitive function: Recent developments in the field. European Journal of Neurology, 28(8), 2625-2635.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
4. Barbhaiya, H. C.; Desai, R. P.; Saxena, V.S.; et al. (2008). Efficacy and Tolerability of BacoMind®on Memory Improvement in Elderly Participants - A Double Blind Placebo Controlled Study. Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 3: 425-434.
5. Walker, E. A.; Pellegrini, M.V.; (2023). Bacopa monnieri. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
6. Morgan, A., & Stevens, J. (2010). Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 16(7), 753–759.
7. Dave, U. P.; Dingankar, S. R.; Saxena, V. S.; et al. (2014). An open-label study to elucidate the effects of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract in the management of symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. Advances in mind-body medicine, 28(2), 10–15.
