What is the Origin of Age-Related Neurological Decline?

The term originates in clinical neurology and psychometrics, tracking the statistical progression of cognitive impairment across large populations over decades. The "age-related" aspect anchors the concept firmly in longitudinal physiological change. It is a descriptive label for the observable slowing of central nervous system operations.

What is the Mechanism of Age-Related Neurological Decline?

Decline often involves compromised cerebral blood flow, increased oxidative stress within neurons, and alterations in neurotransmitter receptor density. Specifically, insufficient estrogen or testosterone signaling can impair synaptic maintenance and long-term potentiation. Restoring optimal neurotrophic factor support is crucial for mitigating these underlying pathological processes.

Age-Related Neurological Decline ∞ Area

Age-Related Neurological Decline

Meaning

This describes the measurable deterioration in cognitive domains, such as memory, processing speed, and executive function, associated with advancing chronological age. It represents a clinical observation of reduced neural plasticity and efficiency over time. We observe this decline often correlating with shifts in sex hormone and thyroid hormone profiles.