Cognitive Health

springers · ‎03-09-2010

I’m almost 60 and noticing my cognitive function isn’t as sharp; focus, mental energy , and creativity.
I have short times while exercising (walking) and morning coffee.
I work 5.5 hrs during school year and perform my job fine. Sitting at home I don’t have the brain enthusiasm like I use to.
I use to make list of projects and multitask morning to night.
Suggestions? Testimonials. Thanks

Foxxee · ‎10-03-2014

Are you depressed?

Sometimes people say "no" to that question because they either don't know the symptoms or recognize they have them.

springers · ‎03-09-2010

That's interesting you say that. I don't know, I've never been a "down" person. I am emotional. I use to cry ( movies / life events)

Nothing really excites me anymore. I use to have more hopes but after menopause my emotions have been more flat. (I did cry when my son got married) I think life disappointments contributes to having less enthusiasm.

I will share with my obgyn next month at my annual. ( side note I don't have a sex drive after menopause but don't want hormones cause I had breast cancer).

Was this tmi?

FancyPhillyshopper · ‎05-02-2017

Assuming that physically you are healthy and are not suffering from any specific illnesses, this may be just a symptom of the world-wide stress we all are undergoing.

It sounds like you had a somewhat work-focused schedule and life, and all this down time is not providing the same level of physical activity and mental engagement.

I am not really sure your age has that much to do with it, as many people stay active and involved their whole lives up to even a century or more.

A lot of individuals also need purpose in life to feel that they are achieving. As we grow older we also start to look back more, trying to consider our past as well as think about our futures.

Create a "bucket list" of all the FUN things you would like to do, see, buy, accomplish, etc., and intersperse that with potential volunteer activities, community service and the must-do's.

Remember the saying that "variety is the spice of life." Take some risks, take a class and learn something new (ballet? French? car mechanics?), take up painting, start a journal, create a flower garden, try some new fashion or haircut styes, adopt a pet, and so forth.

This world is rich with opportunity and we only have a short time to enjoy, so live your best life!

hckynut · ‎03-10-2010

@springers

I personally would seek a professional's opinion about this. A Psychologist or a Psychiatrist would be my choice. There are many things "it might be", but I am not one that believes in speculating, especially when it comes to anyone's physical or mental well being.

I have had my own experiences as an inpatient in a mental ward. Was diagnosed with Panic Anxiety Disorder and Clinical Depression. My symptoms started similarly to what you have described.

Food for thought!

hckynut(john)

Desertdi · ‎03-13-2010

Sleep disorder? I worked graveyard for years, and can't break the habit. Sometimes, I wake up and don't know if it's day or night, or even what day of the week it is.

♥Surface of the Sun♥

Laura14 · ‎06-09-2014

@springers I literally just ordered one of Dr. Amen's books on feeling mentally healthy. It arrives tomorrow.

I have read up a lot on neurological health. I will tell you I did not have explicit cognitive issues but after reading and somewhat following Dr. Bredesen and his ketoflex lifestyle/diet program, I will never forget saying to myself one day while walking, wow, I am thinking really clearly now. I've done it for two years and I feel the best I ever have physically and cognitively.

There are lots of youtube videos on brain health and the latest science. PBS also has a lot of specials with Dr. Amen who is a psychiatrist and brain spect specialist that run pretty regularly. You can also google his tips and tricks and Dr. Bredesen's interviews and lectures if interested.

Lastly, have you thought about journaling? If it is just mood, sometimes getting it out helps lighten you all over.

Laura14 · ‎06-09-2014

@springers One more suggestion for creativity. There is a famous book called The Artists Way by Julia Cameron which is part psychology and part creativity training.

Her method is a walk once a week, journaling every morning, and an artist play date also once a week where you do something fun. Highly recommend and easy to implement.

I've literally bought play doh and a few coloring books, sketch books, crayons, etc. It's amazing how simple stuff we did as kids relaxes you. No talent required.

tends2dogs · ‎05-08-2010

@springers wrote:
That's interesting you say that. I don't know, I've never been a "down" person. I am emotional. I use to cry ( movies / life events)
Nothing really excites me anymore. I use to have more hopes but after menopause my emotions have been more flat. (I did cry when my son got married) I think life disappointments contributes to having less enthusiasm.
I will share with my obgyn next month at my annual. ( side note I don't have a sex drive after menopause but don't want hormones cause I had breast cancer).
Was this tmi?

Have you ever had your thyroid levels checked? The symptom of feeling "flat" is exactly how I feel when my levels are too low. In fact this was the symptom that got my PA to test me and start me on thyroid meds. It made a world of difference. Happiness, clarity, memory, all returned.

BTW Let me know what your obgyn has to say about the "drive" or lack of. That is me. I am fine with it, but....... I did bioidentical hormones for several years and I didn't see much difference in that area......if you know what I mean.

I would ask your obgyn to do a thyroid panel when you go in next month. I hope you can find an answer to this because it isn't a good way to feel.

All the best!

Fear not Brothers and Sisters! I have read THE BOOK..........we win!!!

JeanLouiseFinch · ‎10-03-2011

@springers wrote:
I’m almost 60 and noticing my cognitive function isn’t as sharp; focus, mental energy , and creativity.
I have short times while exercising (walking) and morning coffee.
I work 5.5 hrs during school year and perform my job fine. Sitting at home I don’t have the brain enthusiasm like I use to.
I use to make list of projects and multitask morning to night.
Suggestions? Testimonials. Thanks

@springers When I began living the Keto lifestyle a year ago, I learned about something called MCT oil. It’s great for feeding your gut and brain, as is the keto way of eating itself. I’m down 97 lbs. this morning and my health is better than it’s been in years. I have better focus, better mental clarity, am sleeping better, have more flexibility, you name it. MCT oil is tasteless. I add it to my coffee or salad dressing, but you can take it right off the spoon if you prefer. The only thing you can’t do is cook with it. If you decide to try MCT oil, ease into it as as too much too quickly will cause some tummy distress.