Low levels of these minerals disrupt brain signaling and memory processes, heightening cognitive risks for hospitalized seniors.
Deficiencies in magnesium and calcium may impair brain cell communication in older adults, accelerating memory loss, focus issues, and slower information processing.
A study published in Nutrients reveals that low magnesium and calcium levels are associated with a steeper decline in cognitive abilities in older hospitalized adults. These deficiencies disrupt essential brain functions, such as neurotransmitter activity and cell signaling, which are vital for memory retention, attention, and mental clarity. As a result, seniors with low levels of these minerals are more likely to experience impaired cognitive performance in daily tasks.
In aging brains, magnesium and calcium support neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. When these minerals are deficient, cognitive resilience diminishes, making it harder for elderly adults to recover or maintain mental sharpness. Hospitalized seniors are particularly vulnerable, as their nutritional intake may be inconsistent, leading to compounded effects on cognitive function and overall quality of life.
Addressing magnesium and calcium intake through diet or supplementation could be a practical approach to preserving mental function in at-risk older populations, providing a non-invasive strategy to support brain health.
“Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Therefore, its role in brain health is not a shocker because magnesium is needed for many reactions that support the brain including nerve signaling. Calcium is also involved in nerve signaling and has a calcium-to-magnesium ratio of 2:1 which is essential for optimal biochemical processes. Both magnesium and calcium are needed for optimal brain health.” – Shaon Hines ND, CNS, CPT | Hines Natural Health LLC
Reference: Kravchenko G, Stephenson SS, et al. The Concurrent Association of Magnesium and Calcium Deficiencies with Cognitive Function in Older Hospitalized Adults. Nutrients. 2024;16(21):[page numbers if available]. doi:10.3390/nu16213756.
