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Cognitive Reserve Index

Meaning

The Cognitive Reserve Index is a clinical metric or conceptual measure reflecting the brain’s capacity to withstand the pathological effects of age-related changes or disease without exhibiting commensurate functional decline. It quantifies the resilience of cognitive function, indicating the ability to utilize existing neural networks more efficiently or recruit alternative networks to compensate for damage. A high index is strongly correlated with preserved executive function, processing speed, and overall neurological health, offering a critical marker in preventative brain health and longevity protocols. This reserve is heavily influenced by lifelong learning, lifestyle factors, and hormonal status.