In recent years, the issue of age and cognitive decline in relation to presidential fitness has become a predominant topic of discussion. This concern is amplified by the fact that two of the favored candidates in the 2024 elections are approaching or exceeding the age of 80. However, should old age be a disqualifying factor for a president? As history shows us and as mental health experts argue, the answer is not so simple.
Age and cognitive decline: are they linked?
It is a fact that a decline in cognitive abilities is a normal part of healthy aging. Our overall cognition peaks in our 30s and gradually declines over time. Common changes in thinking as people age include slower recall of words and names, difficulty with multitasking, and a slight decrease in attention span. Natural changes occur in the brain as a person ages, with parts important for learning and other complex mental activities decreasing, connectivity between neurons becoming less efficient, blood flow decreasing, and inflammation increasing. .
However, it is crucial to note that there is wide variation in how people age, and that chronological age does not necessarily reflect biological age. Therefore, mixing up names or having difficulty finding names, especially if the names have a similar structure, is not necessarily unusual as we age.
Presidential Fitness: What Really Matters?
Although the brain undergoes changes as it ages, it also has benefits such as wisdom, judgment, and neuroplasticity that often accompany age. This calls into question the true prerequisites for presidential fitness. Is it more about mental arithmetic or is judgment more important? The role of president requires wisdom and discernment, skills often honed over many years of life experiences. Age alone should therefore not be a cause for concern.
A Historical Perspective: Presidential Fitness and Age
Ronald Reagan is a historical example of presidents facing similar accusations of cognitive decline. Yet, as history shows, cognitive decline does not necessarily lead to catastrophic decision-making. It should be noted that the true test of a president’s fitness is his conduct in office, and elections are the best way to assess a candidate’s fitness.
Public perception and the role of cognitive screenings
However, public perception can often be influenced by ageist stereotypes. An NBC News poll found that three-quarters of voters, including half of Democrats, are concerned about President Joe Biden’s mental and physical health. These concerns about age and mental health have been a recurring theme over the past two presidencies. However, it is essential to focus on mindset and cognitive examinations rather than focusing solely on age. Assessing cognition can be difficult, even for doctors, and they use different methods to determine whether a person has cognitive problems that are not part of normal aging.
As the debate continues, it is essential to remember that there is a slight reduction in memory with age, but forgetting names is not necessarily a sign of a serious cognitive problem. Additionally, the benefits of normal aging and the experience-based wisdom that accompanies it should not be overlooked.
In conclusion, while age and cognitive decline are important considerations, they should not be the sole determining factors in assessing a candidate’s suitability for president. The true test of a president’s fitness is his conduct in office, his ability to make sound judgments, and his ability to lead the nation effectively.
