HIV-Related Cognitive Decline

Overview
Most people don't realize that a common corollary of HIV infection is a decline in cognitive performance. By some estimates, over 50% of HIV patients experience some level of cognitive impairment. HIV-related cognitive impairment is caused by a variety of factors. Most notably, cognition problems occur when the virus directly attacks the brain and cause damage to the myelin – a fatty substance that covers and protects the axons of nerve fibers. Destruction of the myelin can cause nerve impulses to slow down, affecting concentration, memory, thinking, speech, emotional expression, motor coordination, and social behavior. HIV-related cognitive impairment exists in two forms: HIV-associated minor cognitive disorder (mild) and HIV-associated dementia (severe). The degree of impairment in daily living and impact on independence is what distinguishes HIV-associate minor cognitive disorder from HIV-associated dementia. In either case, HIV-related cognitive impairment can be hard to diagnose, partly becuase the symptoms are similar to other conditions.

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Webinar
In "HIV-Related Cognitive Decline: Can Brain Training Help?," Dr. Sean Rourke discussed the scope of HIV-related cognitive impairment and presented case studies on the benefits of Posit Science brain training to treat this common condition. Dr. Rourke was joined by two patients who shared their personal stories about using brain fitness to successfully ameliorate the symptoms of their decline.

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Published Studies
Find out the latest research on HIV-related cognitive decline.

1. Learn more about the correlation between HIV-related cognitive decline and quality of life. Those with more severe HIV-related cognitive impairments have a poorer quality of life.
2. For recent research on how HIV causes nervous system disease at all stages of infection with adverse effects on quality of life, adherence to medications, employment, and survival in over 50% of Canadian HIV patients.
3. Read about recent research that indicates that the frequency of HIV-related neurological impairment is rising as people with HIV live longer.
4. Learn how older adults with HIV may be at greater risk of HIV-related neurocognitive dysfunction than younger cohorts.