The Centers for Disease Control reports nearly 40% of surgeries are performed on adults aged 65 and older.
Dr. Michael Lewis with the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists says aging reduces the body’s ability to manage surgical stress, leaving brain health particularly vulnerable.
“If one has a pre-existing cognitive problem, it tends to get worse with surgery. It can range anything from very mild confusion immediately after the surgery because of the drugs to full blown what we call delirium.”
Lewis warns those cognitive side effects can happen even in patients who show no symptoms prior to surgery.
“What patients don't realize is that anesthesia can affect cognitive function, even when the patient appears very intact cognitively. Often, these changes can only be detected by complex neuropsychological tests, but they're there.”
Lewis encourages older patients to discuss existing health conditions, cognitive concerns and medications with their surgical team so the anesthesia plan can be adjusted.
Physical rest, hydration and mental exercises prior to surgery can also help protect post-op brain function.
For a weekly dose of news right to your inbox, sign up for the WGVU newsletter.
