This appeared in an Op-Ed in the Los Angeles Times this morning.: Link to the Op-Ed I have a subscription to the LA Times, so I hope the link works for free for those interested in reading it.
This op-ed is by a gerontology doctor. He notes that the difference between age-related slower recall (which is normal) versus Alzheimer disease is easily differentiated. He describes the normal aging and recall abilities of people. He notes that the Alzheimer patient cannot form new memories whereas the simply age-related slower recall is normal aging. He also notes that President Biden has coped with a stuttering issue since childhood which for some, suggests a significant cognitive impairment. He judges President Biden as highly functioning mentally because he often refers to events that recently happened. Thus, he is continuing to be able to create new memories efficiently and use them. He notes that:
Studies (link to a relevant study) show that high-functioning seniors like Mel Spears (his family’s 96 year-old lawyer) and the president compensate for slower reaction time by applying superior knowledge and judgment. The presidency is not a job that requires lightning-quick reflexes. First-hand experience with the successes and failures of U.S. foreign policy over decades, for example, combined with time-tested judgment offers far more than speed in speech or decision-making.
I recommend reading this article. He offers much needed input on how to evaluate seniors for cognitive impairment as well as Biden’s overall chances to fill out another 4-year term.