Natural Aging Process Explained
The natural aging process is associated with several biological and physiological changes in the brain that contribute to cognitive decline. Here’s a closer look at the scientific mechanisms behind these changes:
1. Reduction in Brain Volume:
– Atrophy of Brain Regions: As people age, certain brain regions, particularly the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, undergo atrophy, which is a loss of neurons and neural connections. The prefrontal cortex is crucial for executive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and planning, while the hippocampus is essential for memory formation and spatial navigation (Hedden & Gabrieli, 2004).
