There’s no shortage of new cognitive health ingredients hitting the market, but perhaps one highly effective cognitive health supplement for seniors is actually an old ingredient. A 2025 study published in the Annals of Neurology examined the effects of vitamin B12 deficiency on cognitive performance in otherwise healthy elderly adults. The study found that low levels of vitamin B12—even at the low end of the normal spectrum—were associated with cognitive deficits like processing speed impairment and larger volumes of white matter hyperintensities.1 The study authors concluded that vitamin B12 supplementation may be warranted among older adults with neurological symptoms even if their B12 levels are within normal limits.2

“One of the most exciting recent innovations in cognitive health ingredients is the shift toward solutions that support healthy ageing and long-term brain vitality,” said Mariana Ortega, science marketing manager for ingredient supplier Monteloeder in Spain. “As consumers stay active later in life, there’s a growing demand for natural, science-backed ingredients that enhance memory, focus and mental clarity, not just in old age, but throughout adulthood.”

Ortega explained that older adults are a core demographic for cognitive health supplements due to concerns around memory, cognitive decline, and brain aging. She noted that the global population is getting older, making cognitive support for seniors a core growth pillar in the nutraceutical space.

References:

1 Beaudry-Richard A et al. “Vitamin B12 levels associated with functional and structural biomarkers of central nervous system injury in older adults.” Annals of Neurology. Published online February 10, 2025.

2 Leigh S. “ ‘Healthy’ vitamin B12 levels not enough to ward off neuro decline.” University of California San Francisco. Published online February 18, 2025.

Feature