Age-Related Changes in the Neurological System: Structural and Functional Decline with Clinical Implications for Delirium and Dementia
Overview
This paper examines the structural and functional changes in the neurological system associated with aging, including decline in memory, processing speed, and motor control. It analyzes the distinctions between delirium and dementia, their causes, and clinical presentations, with emphasis on how age-related neurological changes contribute to these conditions.
What this coursework covers
- Overview of nervous system structure and function in relation to aging
- Age-related changes in the central and peripheral nervous systems
- Definition, causes, and characteristics of delirium
- Definition, types, and causes of dementia including Alzheimer's disease
- Comparative analysis of delirium and dementia symptoms and presentations
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Neurological System
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Neurological System
The neurological system structure comprises of two components: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The neurological system includes the nerves and specialized cells referred to as neutrons. Neutrons conduct electrochemical stimulation from the sensory receptors to the location where the response occurs. The nervous system is essential in regulating body functions such as muscle contraction for movement and sensory information such as smell. The changes in the neurological system associated with age include structural, functional, and behavioral changes.
Moreover, these changes are caused by a decrease in neurons and the brain’s weight. There are three main areas where the aging process affects the brain: short-term memory loss, verbal skills, leading to the decline of conversing abilities, and low processing of information. Age affects the spinal code; the pyramidal tract chains of neurons responsible for voluntary motor movement decline, slowing down nerve conduction, decreasing strength and motor skills. The central nervous system may reduce blood flow by 0.38% every year and Oxygen utilization (Koblinsky, Atwi, Cohen, Anderson, Greenwood, MacIntosh & Robertson 2020). Age-related changes to the peripheral nervous system include loss of mitochondria and myelin. This slows the conduction of peripheral nerve impulses, leading to decreased sensation and motor control. A reduction in neurotransmitters and postsynaptic receptors in the hippocampus may affect memory function (Mather, 2016).
Delirium is a brain disturbance that causes confusion when thinking and limits awareness of the environment. Delirium occurs when the communication of signals in the brain is impeded.