Cognitive Training, Hearing, and Healthy Aging
As we age, most of us notice subtle changes—forgetting names, misplacing things more often, or struggling to focus when tired, stressed, or low in mood. For most people these changes don’t interfere with daily life, and many learn to adapt with lists, journals, or by addressing underlying anxiety or depression.
But can cognition actually be improved? Encouragingly, research says yes—especially for mild to moderate age-related changes. This newsletter offers a brief review of the science behind “cognitive training” (sometimes called brain training) and introduces a new resource in San Miguel: Dr. Christina Lawrence, an audiologist specializing in both cognitive enhancement and hearing health.
What is cognitive training?
Cognitive training uses structured, often repetitive mental exercises to strengthen brain functions like memory, attention, reasoning, and processing speed. Activities may be computer-based, paper-and-pencil, or guided by a clinician.
Evidence shows cognitive training can:
- Improve specific tasks: People get better at what they practice—memory games, attention drills, reaction-time tasks.
- Boost attention & working memory in certain groups: Benefits are seen in children with ADHD, older adults with mild cognitive decline, and stroke survivors.
- Build cognitive reserve: Lifelong learning and mental stimulation may delay dementia symptoms—yes, there’s real value in continuing to learn Spanish at any age.
Impact by condition:
- Alzheimer’s / Dementia: Cognitive training improves function and quality of life.
- Mild Cognitive Impairment: Supports daily functioning, especially when paired with physical exercise.
- Parkinson’s: Evidence is mixed but can help when combined with other therapies.
Cognitive training isn’t a cure, but it can preserve independence, reduce caregiver stress, and improve quality of life.
Hearing and cognition are deeply connected.
Hearing loss is strongly linked to cognitive decline. Improving hearing improves brain function. That’s why Dr. Christina Lawrence, an American-trained, bilingual audiologist with permanent residency in Mexico, is such an asset to the San Miguel community.
Dr. Lawrence offers:
- Comprehensive hearing tests and the best hearing aids available.
- Ongoing support so you don’t just hear better—you stay connected to people and experiences.
- Neurolistening™, a brain-based auditory training program proven to help people understand conversation, accents, and speech in noise while supporting long-term cognitive health.
With over 20 years of expertise, Dr. Lawrence brings a rare combination of hearing and cognitive rehabilitation to San Miguel. She also maintains a practice in Puerto Vallarta and will visit SMA monthly.
For more information, visit lawrencespeechandhearing.com or contact kimberly@lawrencespeechandhearing.com to schedule an appointment.