Published: March 2024

Brain Fog & Seniors: Symptoms & Treatment

In this blog, we will look at brain fog, what causes it, how its symptoms can be treated, as well as the critical distinction between this condition and Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Brain Fog & Seniors: Symptoms & Treatment

Brain Fog & Seniors

As seniors age, it is normal to experience some decrease in mental sharpness, memory loss, and the ability to concentrate. One explanation for these diminished skills could be brain fog. Brain fog is not an actual medical diagnosis, but usually a result of other underlying issues.

In this blog, we will look at brain fog, what causes it, how its symptoms can be treated, as well as the critical distinction between this condition and Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

What is Brain Fog?

Brain fog is a general feeling of mental cloudiness, where the memory is not as sharp as it used to be, and concentration and focus become increasingly difficult. Many seniors describe brain fog as feeling “spaced out” and mentally ungrounded.

Senior man sitting on the bed and looking away
Senior man sleeping

What Causes Brain Fog in Seniors?

Brain fog can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Medication

Certain medications used to treat conditions, such as high blood pressure, anxiety, or depression can produce a sense of brain fog in some people.

Lack of Sleep

Fatigue is one of the most common reasons seniors experience brain fog. A lack of sleep can cause a variety of health problems, including decreased cognitive acuity.

Poor Nutrition

A poor-quality diet can adversely affect brain function. Excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, and not enough essential vitamins and minerals can decrease mental sharpness.

Stress

Constant stress has an erosive effect on a person’s ability to think clearly, and process information accurately,

Medical Conditions

Chronic medical conditions involving a poorly functioning thyroid, or diabetes can cause fatigue and low energy levels, resulting in impaired cognitive performance.

Senior people playing cards in cafe
Shot of a happy senior couple relaxing together on a sofa outside at home

Brain Fog Solutions for Seniors

A senior who is experiencing brain fog should work closely with their doctor to see what can be done to improve their symptoms. A review of medications, participation in a sleep study, consultation with a dietitian, and looking for strategies to better manage stress are all ways that brain fog can be minimized, and in some cases, eliminated for older people.

The Important Distinction Between Brain Fog & Dementia

A general sense of mental cloudiness (brain fog) is quite different than a person who is becoming cognitively impaired due to Alzheimer’s disease, or other forms of dementia.

A key distinction between the two conditions is that dementia impairs a person’s ability to function in everyday life, such as completing household tasks, losing interest in social activities, neglecting personal hygiene, or no longer being able to recognize close friends or loved ones.If a senior is experiencing any of these symptoms, they should see their doctor immediately for further evaluation. 

Frontier Senior Living is Here to Help

Regardless of its cause, a senior who is experiencing cognitive decline should seek immediate medical attention. The highly compassionate staff at Frontier Senior Living has helped many families find the perfect senior living community to meet their loved ones’ physical, mental, and emotional needs.

If you would like to learn more about our services, we cordially invite you to visit one of our beautiful properties, take a tour, and speak with our friendly and caring staff.

Find a community near you
that perfectly fits your needs.

Our Communities

Washington Gardens Memory Care

9000 Southwest 91st Avenue
Tigard, Oregon 97223
(503) 213-6494
Levels of Care:

Assisted Living, Memory Care

Clearwater Springs Assisted Living

201 Northwest 78th Street
Vancouver, Washington 98665
(360) 803-4546
Levels of Care:

Assisted Living

Monterey Court Memory Care

8915 Southeast Monterey Avenue
Happy Valley, Oregon 97086
(503) 773-6670
Levels of Care:

Assisted Living, Memory Care