The brain is the center of all human cognitive ability, controlling cognitive ability, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. There is a myriad of functions enacted by our amazing brain every day. The level of performance the brain is capable of influences how well an individual can navigate through all the ups and downs of life and maintain independence well into their older years.
However, our cognitive ability does change as we age. We may struggle to find the right words, be forever losing our glasses or keys, or lose focus more easily. However, some changes are not considered to be a standard or normal part of aging, such as those associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
The Positive Side of Aging
As we age, our body and brain change in many ways.
Senior citizens often have more knowledge, wisdom, and insight than their younger counterparts. They have decades of experience and have learned to prioritize important matters and not worry about minor problems. Having more perspective leads to a peaceful and more abundant life. Just because the years are adding up doesn’t mean a senior is required to stop living. A healthy brain can still improve, create new memories, and learn new skills.
How Brain Cells Affect Cognitive Function
A healthy adult brain is made up of various types of cells.
Neurons are nerve cells that translate and disseminate information throughout the brain. Neurons also transmit information from the brain to the rest of the body, including organs and musculature.
Did You Know? The brain contains a remarkable network of blood vessels. Even though the brain comprises only 2 percent of the body’s overall weight, it demands 20 percent of the body’s blood supply.
The ability of neurons to work properly is reliant on three key processes:
- Communication: When signals travel between neurons, an electrical charge is created. This charge works its way to the synapse, a minuscule gap where neurotransmitters are let loose then travels to another neuron.
- Metabolism: All the brain’s functions need oxygen and glucose, which are transmitted via the brain’s blood flow.
- Repair and regeneration: Human neurons can last more than 100 years. Therefore, they must continually maintain themselves and fix any damage they incur. Some regions of the brain can even generate new neurons.
What Happens as You Age?
- As you grow older, areas of the brain can grow smaller – specifically those related to learning and other complex cognitive activities.
- Communication between nerve cells may decrease.
- The brain’s blood flow may become slower.
- Inflammation can increase, influencing the body’s response to illness and injury.
Some senior citizens experience a decline in complex memory or learning capabilities. However, this decline is considered from no longer using the brain as the one used to – but this is completely reversible. A growing body of research points to the fact that the brain remains teachable and can take on new challenges as long as people continue to exercise it.
Fast Fact: Medical experts are uncertain why some senior citizens keep their cognitive ability into their later years and others do not. One possible explanation is termed “cognitive reserve,” which is the brain’s ability to function appropriately even when some facet of it is disrupted. Those with higher levels of education seem to have more cognitive reserve than those who don’t.
If You Need Memory Care
Unfortunately, some seniors will experience a significant decline in cognitive ability and will require professional memory care. Finding a skilled memory care facility to provide a fulfilling quality of life can be difficult, but A Banyan Residence invites you to learn more.
