Why does our ability to focus diminish as we age?

There are a number of reasons as to why one may find it hard to concentrate and focus. A loss of alertness can be caused by the ageing process, medical, cognitive or psychological problems as well as other disorders such as sleeping disorders. If a lack of focus is being caused by another condition, it is vital to treat the underlying condition, while also treating the symptoms.

A study conducted at the University of Toronto found that older people generally have decreased brain activity in areas of the brain that enable concentration (prefrontal cortex) compared to young adults. This indicates that the older population may struggle to focus easily and may need to make some lifestyle changes to 'exercise' the brain as well as taking a supplement regime that compliment the ability to restore activity to the correct areas of the brain.

Symptoms

• Struggle to concentrate for prolonged periods of time

• Easily distracted

• Disorganization

• Poor time management

• Forgetfulness

All of these symptoms can be caused by having a lower level of activity within the prefrontal cortex or other important areas of the brain. It is important to regulate brain chemistry to ensure a healthy level of concentration is achievable.

Diagnosis

Normally it would be the individual suffering with alertness and focus issues that would notice a decline in their ability to concentrate or by a loved one. Doctors may ask certain questions to gain an insight into the normal standards of focus levels for the patient and analyse the severity of the decline to determine whether it is due to age or a medical condition.

Natural Solutions

Stabilized Oxygen – Stabilized oxygen supplements can be used effectively to restore alertness and focus. This is due to the fact that a lack of alertness can be due to a lower level of oxygen getting to the brain. By using stabilized oxygen it is possible to stabilize oxygen levels in the brain allowing the brain to operate at a higher capacity.

Fish Oils – Fish oils are a rich source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) which are two types of Omega-3 fatty acids. Both of these fatty acids have been linked to improved brain health and function. DHA plays a vital role in the maintenance of brain structure and functionality. DHA accounts for 25% of the total fats and 90% of the omega-3 fats found within brain cells. EPA on the other hand has anti-inflammatory properties which may help to protect the brain against damage and ageing. DHA supplements have often been linked with improved thinking skills, memory and reaction times in healthy people who have low DHA intakes. It has also aided people experiencing a mild decline in brain function.

Acetyl-L-carnitine - Is an amino acid naturally produced in the body. It plays an important role in ones metabolism, particularly in energy production. Taking an Acetyl-L-carnitine supplement has been linked to people claiming they feel more alert as well as improvements to memory and the slowing of age related memory loss. In a clinical trial it was found that use of acetyl-l-carnitine may be useful for improving the brain function of people with mild dementia or Alzheimer’s. However, there is no research to show it has a beneficial effect in otherwise healthy people who aren’t suffering from a loss of brain function.

Ginkgo Biloba – Is a herbal supplement often used to improve brain functions such as focus and memory. Despite the widespread use of this supplement, results from multiple studies have often been mixed. Some studies found that supplementing with Ginkgo Biloba helped to reduce age related decline in brain function. A different study showed an improvement of memory and thinking skills in healthy middle-aged patients. It should be noted that not all studies have come to the same conclusion on these benefits.

Unfortunately we no longer supply the suggested supplements above. We apologise for any inconveniences.

Lifestyle Changes

• Physical exercise

• Eat healthy and get adequate nutrition intake

• Sleep well

• Brain training (Such as chess or sudoku)

• Stay social and connected with people