Neurological System

Full Answer Section

 

• Changes in neurotransmitters: There are also changes in the levels of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that allow neurons to communicate with each other. These changes can lead to problems with mood, sleep, and cognitive function.
• Increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases: As we age, we are also at an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. These diseases are characterized by the death of neurons in specific areas of the brain, which leads to a decline in cognitive function and motor control.

Peripheral Nervous System

• Decreased nerve conduction velocity: The speed at which nerve impulses travel slows down as we age. This is due to a decrease in the number of functioning neurons and a loss of myelin.
• Increased risk of peripheral neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that damages the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that run throughout the body. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.
• Changes in reflexes: Reflexes, such as the knee-jerk reflex, become slower and weaker as we age. This is due to a decrease in the number of functioning neurons in the spinal cord.

Other Changes In addition to the changes listed above, there are a number of other changes that occur in the neurological system as we age. These include:

• Changes in sleep patterns: Sleep patterns become more fragmented as we age, and we may have more difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
• Changes in mood: Mood changes, such as depression and anxiety, are common in older adults.
• Changes in cognitive function: Cognitive function, such as memory and thinking skills, declines gradually with age.

Conclusion The neurological system undergoes a number of changes as we age. These changes can affect our mood, sleep, cognitive function, and motor control. While some of these changes are inevitable, there are things we can do to slow down the progression of age-related neurological decline. These include staying mentally and physically active, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.

Sample Answer

 

• Decreased brain volume: The brain gradually shrinks as we age, with a loss of about 5% of volume by the age of 80. This is due to a loss of neurons and synapses, as well as a decrease in the amount of myelin, the fatty sheath that insulates nerve cells.