Preserving cognitive vitality: Value of cognitive rehabilitation in addressing cognitive deficits in the elderly

Abstract

The recent advancements in medical sciences has resultedin not only increasing life expectancy of the elderly but hasalso improved survival rate in elderly with neurologicaldisorders including those with head trauma . This hasresulted in an increasing number of persons with cognitivedeficits. Cognitive functions such as executive functioningand memory play an important role in success of arehabilitation programme and therefore can positivelycontribute to public health goals. Considering cognitivedecline at present has no cure and pharmacologicaltherapies have a limited role, efforts are usually made todelay the onset and progression of cognitive decline andimprove quality of life. Literature suggests that active lifestyle, regular exercise, actively performing activities of dailyliving can have a significant impact on cognitive skills. Inaddition different models of cognitive rehabilitation andapproaches can be integrated into practice to improvecognitive reserve and cause neuroplastic changes tofacilitate cognitive function by providing cognitive stimulusand training. Moreover with technological advancements,the computerized cognitive intervention field is growing.This usually integrates conventional cognitive interventionwith digital smart devices to provide an engaging and costeffective alternate approach. This review aims to highlightthe importance of cognitive rehabilitation and suggest afew evidence based approaches that may be consideredby rehabilitation professionals to promote and improvecognitive rehabilitation in Pakistan.Keywords: Cognition, Cognitive Decline, CognitiveRehabilitation, Elderly, Executive functions, Memory.