Sleep and memory in the aging brain

Sleep and memory in the aging brain

Sleep and memory in the aging brain.

New findings reveal a connection between sleep and memory, and shed light on why forgetfulness is common in the elderly.

Our brains naturally deteriorate with age. Sleep quality -specifically the slow-wave activity that occurs during deep sleep – also decreases as we get older (this is natural and not insomnia related).

Previous research found that slow waves are generated in a brain region called the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), which exhibits age-related deterioration. The study helps explain the relationship between brain deterioration, sleep disruption and memory loss as we get older.

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