Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Using Retinal Imaging to Study Dementia
Published on: November 6, 2017
Age-related changes in the visual cortex: a review
C Polidori1, Y C Zeng, D Zaccheo
1Sezione di Anatomia Umana, Istituto di Farmacologia, Università di Camerino, Via Scalzino 5, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
Abstract:
The main age related changes in visual cortex are reviewed. The visual cortex (occipital cortex, areas 17-19) undergoes a variety of anatomical, biochemical and functional changes with aging. From a morphological point of view the visual cortex loses nerve cells mainly in the last period of life. From a biochemical point of view cholinergic, serotonergic, and GABAergic neurotransmissions seem to be the most remarkably affected. In terms of functional correlates, a decline of several activities of the visual cortex has been documented in the elderly. Due to the importance of visual cortex in the realization of visual function, the influence of aging on this cerebrocortical area requires a more detailed analysis.
Related Concept Videos
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
Vision
Visual System
Once through the pupil, the light passes through the lens, a...
Anatomy of the Eyeball
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Glaucoma: Overview

