What are Super Agers?
The term "Super Agers" was coined by researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, notably by cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Emily Rogalski. Super Agers are individuals over the age of 80 who possess exceptional cognitive abilities, specifically memory performance that matches or exceeds that of individuals 20 to 30 years younger. This remarkable group defies the conventional wisdom that cognitive decline is an inevitable part of aging, showcasing that one can maintain sharp mental faculties well into old age.
Characteristics of Super Agers:
Superior Memory: They excel in recalling past events or lists with proficiency akin to much younger adults.
Brain Structure: Studies, including those from Harvard, have shown that Super Agers have a thicker cortex, particularly in areas like the anterior cingulate cortex, which is crucial for attention and executive functions.
Lifestyle Factors: Social engagement, physical activity, and mental stimulation are common among Super Agers. Their lifestyles include elements like regular exercise, a diet rich in nutrients, and active social lives.
Genetic and Biological Factors: While lifestyle plays a significant role, genetics also contribute, with research indicating certain genes might offer protection against cognitive decline.
Infinite Health's Role in Creating Super Agers
At Infinite Health Integrative Medicine Center in New Orleans, LA, we've taken the insights from global research on Super Agers to heart. Here’s how we are helping our patients strive towards this extraordinary state of health:
Personalized Nutrition Plans:
Drawing from diets like the Mediterranean or MIND diet, known for their cognitive benefits, we craft personalized nutrition plans. These diets are high in antioxidants, beneficial fats, and fiber, all of which are linked to lower cognitive decline risks.
Physical Fitness Programs:
Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of the Super Ager lifestyle. We offer tailored fitness programs that not only focus on cardiovascular health but also on strength, flexibility, and balance, all of which contribute to cognitive health.
Mental Health and Cognitive Challenges:
We integrate activities designed to keep the mind sharp, such as puzzles, strategic games, or learning new skills, echoing the mental agility seen in Super Agers.
Stress Management and Social Engagement:
Understanding the link between social bonds and cognitive health, Infinite Health promotes community involvement, group activities, and stress reduction techniques like meditation and yoga, which are known to foster mental resilience.
Advanced Diagnostic and Monitoring:
Using cutting-edge diagnostics like MRI for brain health assessment, we monitor changes and the effectiveness of our interventions, much like the research studies on Super Agers.
Genomic Insights:
Although we can't change genetics, understanding them helps us tailor our approaches. We use genetic testing to see if patients have markers associated with longevity or cognitive resilience.
The journey to becoming a Super Ager is not about defying age but about enhancing life quality at any age through informed, holistic health practices. At Infinite Health, we're not just about treating symptoms; we're about nurturing a lifestyle that promotes longevity with cognitive vitality. By integrating the latest research with personalized care, we aim to help our community become the Super Agers of tomorrow.
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