We tend to think of brain aging as inevitable. Slower thinking. Forgetting names. A gradual slide toward something we don’t fully understand but quietly fear.
But what if the story is more complicated than that?
In this episode of Causes or Cures, I speak with neurologist and neuroscientist Dr. Majid Fotuhi about what’s really happening to the brain as we age and what we might be getting wrong about Alzheimer’s disease. I recently read his new book, The Invincible Brain: The Clinically-Proven Way to Age-Proof Your Brain and Stay Sharp for Life, so the episode focuses on things covered in the book.
By the way, there’s a lot we might be getting wrong about the brain and aging.
Is Alzheimer’s Always Alzheimer’s
One of the more surprising parts of this conversation is the idea that what we call Alzheimer’s disease may not be one single condition.
Dr. Fotuhi explains how cognitive decline can come from multiple overlapping processes. Vascular issues. Inflammation. Lifestyle factors. Neurodegeneration.
Which raises a difficult question.
Are we sometimes labeling people with Alzheimer’s when the reality is more complex and potentially more modifiable?
Intelligence is Not What You Think It Is
We also unpack intelligence beyond the usual IQ conversation.
IQ tests were originally designed to identify deficits, not define the full range of human intelligence. That matters.
Because it shifts the focus from what you are to what you can build, if provided the right tools and optimal environment.
In his book and on the podcast, Dr. Fotuhi describes different types of intelligence. If you ever felt like a fish out of water in a traditional classroom, you will appreciate this discussion.
Why You Forget Names But Remember Random Details
Memory is selective. And sometimes, frustratingly so.
Why do you forget someone’s name seconds after hearing it but remember something completely irrelevant from ten years ago. Why do you remember a person’s dog’s name but not his/her name? (I asked that in the podcast, because that is me. ;) )
Dr. Fotuhi breaks down how memory works and, more importantly, how to improve it.
He shares simple, practical, FUN exercises that can strengthen memory in noticeable ways. Not abstract theory. Things you can actually try.
Is Technology Making Our Brains Worse?
We also talk about something most people feel but rarely examine closely.
Technology.
Is it helping our brains or quietly weakening them?
The concept of “use it or lose it” comes up here, along with neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change and adapt over time.
Your brain is not static. But it does respond to how you use it.
Or don’t.
Can You Lower Your Risk Of Alzheimer’s?
This is where the conversation becomes especially relevant.
We discuss genetics, including the APOE gene, often associated with higher Alzheimer’s risk.
But genetics is not destiny.
Lifestyle factors matter. A LOT. If you listen to this section and know you have a high-risk gene, YOU WILL LEAVE MORE HOPEFUL.
Why Treating Plaques Does Not Always Improve Function:
We also touch on current treatments, including antibody therapies that target plaques in the brain.
Reducing plaques sounds promising.
But here’s the catch:
It does not always translate into improved cognitive function.
Which forces a bigger question.
Are we targeting the right things?
Listen to the Full Episode
This conversation covers a lot of ground, from how memory actually works to what you can do today to support long term brain health.
If you’ve ever wondered whether Alzheimer’s is being overdiagnosed; how to improve your memory, or what actually helps your brain stay sharp, this episode is worth your time.
👉 Listen to the full episode of Causes or Cures with Dr. Majid Fotuhi
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Other gems to explore in the blog:
From Gigolo to Guru: the Spiritual Transformation of Master Nick Eagle
How Rasputin Really Died and Other Bizarre Deaths, with Dr. Roger Byard