What Happens to the Brain in Old Age?

As we age, our brains undergo several changes. One of the most significant is a reduction in brain volume, which begins in our 20s and continues throughout our lives. This shrinkage is most pronounced in the frontal cortex, which is responsible for higher-order cognitive functions such as planning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Additionally, the brain's white matter, which facilitates communication between different brain regions, also experiences a decline with age. These changes can lead to a variety of cognitive impairments, including memory loss, slower processing speed, and difficulty multitasking. However, it is important to note that the brain remains remarkably adaptable and can compensate for some of these changes through a process known as neuroplasticity, which involves the formation of new neural connections and the strengthening of existing ones.