How Our Brains Change as We Age

Dr. Marcia Neville, Ph.D. joins CareLab to explain what actually happens to our brains as we get older. She breaks down normal cognitive changes vs. early signs of decline, the surprising link between hormones and memory, and how socializing might be the most important brain exercise you’re skipping. Whether you’re aging yourself or caring for someone who is, this episode offers science-backed ways to protect and enhance cognitive health.

Chapters:

00:00 – Brainy kids and coloring books

05:25 – What “normal” brain aging looks like

10:40 – Menopause, hormones & cognitive fog

14:55 – Cognitive reserve: what it is and how to build it

20:30 – What’s really causing decline: sleep, hydration & hearing

26:40 – Medication red flags and what to ask your doctor

31:20 – Exercise without injury & protecting brain health

Resources:

Future of care navigation: https://seniorai.app

Care equipment & solutions: https://www.asksamie.com

More episodes + resources: https://www.carelabpodcast.com