Researchers have found that cognitive stimulation and personal relationships can protect against dementia, while stress can undermine that protection. Sources of stress may include being a caregiver or dealing with cognitive decline itself. Experts suggest that stress management techniques should be incorporated into dementia and Alzheimer’s disease prevention and care. A study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia reported that stress can reduce the cognitive benefits associated with stimulating and rewarding life experiences. The researchers found that mindfulness exercises and meditation may help reduce cortisol levels and improve cognition, suggesting that stress management strategies could be a good complement to existing lifestyle interventions in Alzheimer’s prevention.
Past studies have shown that a strong cognitive reserve index (CRI) can protect against cognitive decline in people with Alzheimer’s disease. CRI scores are determined by cognitively stimulating experiences, higher education levels, complex jobs, physical and leisure activities, and healthy social interactions. In a recent study, researchers examined the association between CRI scores, cognition, and biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease in 113 participants from a memory clinic at the Karolinska University Hospital. They also looked at levels of perceived stress and biomarkers for psychological stress, such as cortisol levels in saliva. The study found that while higher CRI scores were linked to better cognition, this association was reduced when adjusting for cortisol levels. Individuals with healthier cortisol levels showed better working memory with higher CRI scores, while those with high levels of psychological stress did not benefit as much.
Chronic stress, which can be caused by factors such as caregiving responsibilities, can lead to elevated cortisol levels and potentially damage the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory. This can negate the benefits of cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity, worsening dementia symptoms. Stress management strategies such as meditation, physical exercise, and therapy are important for reducing the risk of cognitive decline in high-stress professions. Speech-language pathologists also incorporate stress management techniques into therapy plans for people with dementia, as chronic stress can negatively impact memory and communication skills. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as language-based exercises, can strengthen neural pathways and improve cognitive functions in individuals with cognitive decline.
The impact of stress on cognition is crucial to consider when creating personalized treatment plans for people with dementia. The study, while limited by a small sample size and a lack of control for factors like lack of sleep, highlights the importance of managing stress in dementia prevention and care. Overall, stress management techniques should be integrated into existing lifestyle interventions to improve the quality of life for individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. By incorporating mindfulness exercises, meditation, relaxation techniques, and cognitive stimulation programs, healthcare providers can help reduce the negative effects of stress on cognitive function and promote better overall brain health in patients with dementia.
