Today, I'm speaking with Dr. Ross Andel. Dr. Andel is a gerontologist, professor, and director of the PhD program at Arizona State University. Ross has spent decades researching aging, memory, and lifestyle-related cognitive health risks. In 2023, he was elected a lifetime fellow of the American Association for his achievements in the study of risk factors for age-related cognitive decline for Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia.
Dr. Andel explains how daily routines and purpose directly impact brain function and why some retirees experience faster cognitive decline than others. He shares his findings from several international studies—including his viral TED Talk, "Is Retirement Bad for Your Brain?"—and delves into why your post-retirement plan matters just as much as your financial one.
In our conversation, you'll hear why those who retire from high-level managerial careers may be at greater risk for faster cognitive decline in retirement, how volunteering and pursuing new hobbies improves brain function and Dr. Andel's poignant advice for anyone who is a caretaker for a loved one that is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's.
In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:
- Why retirement without purpose can accelerate cognitive decline—and how to avoid the retirement trap.
- The connection between high-engagement careers and faster post-retirement mental decline.
- What research says about sleep, supplements, and cardiometabolic health for brain function.
- How race, gender, and job complexity influence cognitive aging differently.
- Why routine, exercise, and meaningful engagement are essential to brain longevity.
Show Notes: RetireWithPurpose.com/504
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Retire With Purpose - The Retirement Podcast