Final answer:
Aging in the nervous system results in slowed nerve function, decreased nerve cells, and brain structure changes, which can affect cognitive and motor functions. Preventing nervous system problems is crucial and can be done through a healthy diet, physical exercise, cognitive training, and avoiding harmful substances. Disorders of the nervous system vary, with vascular disorders, infections, injuries, and degenerative diseases being common, each requiring specific treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physiological Changes in the Nervous System with Aging
As we age, our nervous system undergoes several physiological changes. Some of the changes include slowing of nerve conduction, a decrease in the number of nerve cells, and changes in the structures of the brain, such as reduced brain mass and the volume of neurotransmitters. These changes can lead to slower cognitive processes, reduced coordination, and sometimes memory impairment.
Importance of Prevention in Nervous System Problems
Prevention plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy nervous system and mitigating the progression of potential nervous system disorders. Effective prevention can include maintaining a balanced diet with foods important for a healthy nervous system, ensuring healthy fat intake to support neuron function, and adopting behaviours that protect the nervous system from injury, like wearing seat belts or helmets.
Examples of prevention include regular physical exercise to enhance blood flow to the brain, cognitive training to maintain neural plasticity, and avoiding harmful substances like excessive alcohol or neurotoxic chemicals. Additionally, vaccinations can prevent infectious diseases that might damage the nervous system, such as meningitis.
Common Nervous System Disorders
Disorders of the nervous system include various conditions like vascular disorders (e.g., stroke), infections (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis), brain or spinal cord injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's). Symptoms and treatment depend on the specific condition. For example, a stroke may require immediate medical intervention to restore blood flow and minimize brain damage, while neurodegenerative diseases may be managed through medication to control symptoms.