Does high caffeine intake worsen memory in seniors?
Many seniors enjoy a cup of coffee each morning, but does too much caffeine hurt their memory? Recent studies show the opposite is more likely true. For older adults, moderate caffeine from coffee seems to protect the brain rather than harm it.
One key study looked at older people with mild cognitive impairment, an early sign of memory problems. Those with high blood caffeine levels, about equal to three cups of coffee a day, were much less likely to progress to full Alzheimer’s disease two to four years later.https://www.aol.com/5-proven-brain-benefits-drinking-151500031.html Caffeine appears to block adenosine, a brain chemical that can damage neurons and lead to dementia.https://www.aol.com/5-proven-brain-benefits-drinking-151500031.html
Another large analysis of women tracked over decades found that higher caffeine intake from regular coffee in midlife linked to better healthy aging later on. This included no major memory issues or cognitive decline. Each extra cup raised the odds of healthy aging by about 2 percent.https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/roundup-coffee-and-longevity-3-studies-explore-how-coffee-may-benefit-healthy-aging Decaf coffee did not show the same effect, pointing to caffeine as a main helper.
Coffee also packs antioxidants that fight cell damage in the brain, making it the top source in many diets.https://www.aol.com/5-proven-brain-benefits-drinking-151500031.html Reviews of dozens of studies across continents confirm regular coffee, around three cups a day, ties to lower risks of dementia and better brain function in older age.https://www.prevention.com/health/a69898648/drinking-coffee-add-years-to-your-life-study/
What counts as high intake? Benefits peak at three to four cups for most people, including seniors. Beyond that, gains level off or drop.https://www.prevention.com/health/a69729904/three-to-four-cups-of-coffee-slows-biological-aging-study/https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/roundup-coffee-and-longevity-3-studies-explore-how-coffee-may-benefit-healthy-aging Too much can cause jitters, sleep trouble, or heart issues, which might indirectly affect memory. Those with high blood pressure should check with a doctor, as two or more cups could raise risks in some cases.https://www.prevention.com/health/a69898648/drinking-coffee-add-years-to-your-life-study/
No studies in these findings point to high caffeine worsening memory in seniors. Instead, they highlight protective effects up to a moderate amount.
Sources
https://www.aol.com/5-proven-brain-benefits-drinking-151500031.html
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/roundup-coffee-and-longevity-3-studies-explore-how-coffee-may-benefit-healthy-aging
https://www.prevention.com/health/a69729904/three-to-four-cups-of-coffee-slows-biological-aging-study/
https://www.prevention.com/health/a69898648/drinking-coffee-add-years-to-your-life-study/
