Brain Health Is on the Minds of Patients and Pharmacists More Than Ever

Questions and concerns about how best to maintain a healthy brain and strong memory are expected to increase in coming years as the U.S. population ages.

Brain health already is one of the most frequently discussed topics at the pharmacy counter. Pharmacists hold roughly millions of conversations with patients on brain health each year, according to a recent survey by Pharmacy Times.

That number will likely rise as more adults enter their senior years.

Today, the United States is home to than 46 million adults over the age of 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 2030, that number is projected to increase by almost 18 million, with 1 in 5 Americans being over 65 years. By 2050, that number is expected to grow to more than 88 million individuals, the census projects.

Simple forgetfulness and delays in recalling names and events can be part of the normal aging process, experts note. Many older individuals will seek ways to stay sharp and guard against such memory loss, and will turn to their local pharmacists for advice.

As highly accessible and trusted health care providers, pharmacists are ideally situated to discuss healthy brain aging with older clients.

Pharmacists already play a crucial role in advising individuals on how to best maintain both a healthy body and mind. These include suggestions to exercise, get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, avoid too much alcohol, and engage in mindful and social activities. Pharmacists may also recommend vitamins and supplements that offer brain health support, such as Prevagen, the No. 1 pharmacist-recommended memory support product in 2020, according to a Pharmacy Times survey.

Interest in brain health is only expected to grow, and pharmacists will play a front-line role in responding to queries. Resources, tips, and advice on how to stay sharp are available at Brain Health & Aging: A Pharmacist’s Guide, www.brainhealthaging.com.