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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
10:13
Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Some developments in brain ageing and dementia
1Neurochemical Pathology Unit, Newcastle General Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, England, UK.
British Journal of Biomedical Science
|March 21, 1998
Summary
Understanding dementia in old age requires examining brain changes during aging. Exploring similarities between aging and diseases like Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (IPD) is key for prevention and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Pathology
Background:
- The causes of common age-related dementias are not fully understood.
- Aging involves significant biological, neurophysiological, and psychological brain changes.
- Age is a primary risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review biological, neurophysiological, and psychological changes in the aging human brain.
- To examine age-dependent diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) in the context of aging.
- To discuss risk factors and the relationship between the aging process and dementia.
Main Methods:
- Review of biological, neurophysiological, and psychological changes associated with human brain aging.
- Consideration of age-dependent diseases (AD, IPD, DLB) and their risk factors.
- Analysis of similarities and differences between normal aging and disease processes.
Main Results:
- Aging involves progressive changes in the brain, some gradual and others characteristic of senescence.
- Diseases like AD, IPD, and DLB share commonalities with the aging process, suggesting a complex interplay.
- Vascular dementia (VaD) is linked to hypertension and atherosclerosis, though its pathogenesis is not detailed here.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the relationship between brain aging and dementia is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
- Investigating the parallels and distinctions between aging and neurodegenerative diseases can inform therapeutic approaches.
- Further research into the aging process may unlock new avenues for managing cognitive decline.
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