Final answer:
Age-related memory decline is associated with changes in the hippocampus of the brain, and a reduction in its volume is linked to memory deficits in the elderly. The hippocampus is central to memory formation, and degeneration in this area is seen in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, marked by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Cognitive rehabilitation has been proposed to offset memory impairments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neuroimaging studies show that age related memory decline is associated with changes in the hippocampus in the brain. A reduction in the volume of the hippocampus is associated with memory deficits among the elderly.
The hippocampus is a critical brain structure involved in memory formation and retrieval. Aging can lead to atrophy in this area, correlating with decreased memory function. Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's prominently feature hippocampal degeneration, characterized by amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and loss of neurons. This degeneration is evidenced through altered brain scans that show significant neurodegeneration, particularly within the hippocampus and expansion of the brain's ventricles.
Additionally, neuroinflammation leading to hippocampal dendritic atrophy and neuronal death can contribute to memory impairment. Factors such as genetics, environment, and diet can influence the progression of memory decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Cognitive rehabilitation, including the use of virtual reality, has been suggested to mitigate mild cognitive impairment and potentially delay the onset of dementia.