FollowOne of the main concerns that many families have in regard to their aging parents is in how advanced age impairs cognition. This is, in simple terms, the thought process that takes you from learning through to being able to put that information to use in your life. As we age, the cognitive function of the brain seems to deteriorate and so scientists, doctors and lay people alike seek to determine the relationship between aging and cognition. If there is a definite link, can it be treated? Here are some of the current ‘thoughts’ on the issue.
A Brief Example of Cognitive Degeneration in Dementia
As we learn, we assimilate that knowledge, put it in a box (parameters of understanding) to be filed away for later use. This is the cognitive process and one that appears to deteriorate with advanced age. An example of this would be something like an elderly person suffering from Alzheimer’s putting a shoe in the refrigerator.
He/she knows that shoe needs to be put away but somehow the refrigerator is chosen instead of the closet. There is some missing link between what they’ve learned and how they act on that knowledge. The cognitive process from a) to c) is disrupted in some way. They have learned that a) the shoe needs to be put away and b) there is a place to store the shoe but c) the place where it goes is not clear.
Evidence Shows a Link between Aging and Cognition
According to a prestigious medical college, Emory University, based in Atlanta, there is a link between aging and cognition but there are ways to treat the decline in function and perhaps even delay problems or avoid them altogether. Based on their research, there is no ‘normal’ level of degeneration and so they conclude that there is a link but the extent of that link is unclear. Emory has found that certain medications may improve cognition in elderly patients and this is why so many pharmaceutical companies are investing billions of dollars annually to find medical treatments that can keep those with cognitive issues alert.
Modvigil vs Modalert
In the news and in medical journals there are numerous advertisements on products such as Modafinil, Modvigil and Modalert and this often leaves the consumer wondering which is best. When seeking to determine the difference between Modvigil vs Modalert, for example, it is good to know that they are just different brand names of the exact same medication proven to improve mental alertness and cognition. This is why they are often recommended by general practitioners and geriatric specialists alike.
If you or someone you love seems to be developing cognitive problems, it is time to talk to your doctor about some form of treatment that can improve the clarity of thought. Modafinil, Modvigil and Modalert are proven to be effective and something you just might wish to investigate. If cognitive function can be restored, aging patients can live a much better lifestyle, often without the need of support. This is cause for hope in the medical community and why drugs like Modafinil are becoming widely employed.
