''82 now and I notice the synapses need updating'' probably it...

''82 now and I notice the synapses need updating''

probably

it is to be remembered
1. that memory and concentration are not the same
2. memory or concentration can be affected by many things - age is merely one of them

Personally I find concentration more affected or not by alcohol and also by exercise levels and type and sleep.
Memory - also affected by alcohol - and exercise

As to purely age related memory change ------- it's an interesting time


Recent research indicates that age-related memory changes may be reversible under certain conditions, primarily through interventions targeting neuroplasticity and addressing underlying health issues.
## Reversing Memory Loss in Animal Studies
A significant breakthrough was reported by scientists from the University of Cambridge and the University of Leeds, who successfully reversed age-related memory loss in mice. Their research focused on the extracellular matrix of the brain, particularly perineuronal nets (PNNs), which play a crucial role in neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to adapt and form new memories. As mice aged, the balance of compounds within these nets shifted, leading to a decline in memory function. By using a viral vector to increase levels of chondroitin 6-sulphate, a compound that promotes neuroplasticity, researchers restored memory function in older mice to levels comparable to younger ones[1].
## Human Implications and Treatments
While these findings are promising, they are primarily based on animal models. However, researchers believe that similar mechanisms may exist in humans due to the biological similarities between species. This suggests potential avenues for developing treatments aimed at preventing or reversing memory loss in aging populations[1].
In addition to experimental treatments, certain lifestyle factors and medical conditions can influence memory function. For example:
- **Vitamin B12 Deficiency**: Addressing deficiencies can reverse associated memory problems. Monthly injections are often recommended for older adults who may have absorption issues[2].
- **Thyroid Issues**: Proper management of thyroid hormone levels can alleviate cognitive symptoms related to memory loss[2].
- **Stress Management**: Reducing stress can improve cognitive function since chronic stress negatively impacts memory[2][3].
## Normal Aging vs. Cognitive Decline
It's important to differentiate between normal age-related forgetfulness and more serious cognitive impairments like mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. While some degree of memory lapse is common as people age, significant declines that interfere with daily life should be evaluated by healthcare professionals[4][5].
In summary, while age-related memory changes can be concerning, there is evidence suggesting that certain interventions may reverse these changes. Continued research into both pharmacological treatments and lifestyle modifications holds promise for enhancing cognitive health in aging populations.
Citations:
[1] https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/scientists-reverse-age-related-memory-loss-in-mice
[2] https://www.helpguide.org/aging/healthy-aging/age-related-memory-loss
[3] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/age-related-memory-loss-can-we-prevent-or-even-reverse-it
[4] https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem..../memory-lapses-normal-aging-or-something-more
[5] https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/memory-loss-and-forgetfulness/memory-problems-forgetfulness-and-aging
[6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/memory-loss/art-20046326
[7] https://www.apa.org/topics/aging-older-adults/memory-brain-changes
[8] https://neurosciencenews.com/neurotech-aging-memory-21313/

Then - there's this

.
Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist commonly used for asthma and allergies, has shown potential in addressing age-related memory loss, particularly through its anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates that montelukast may alleviate cognitive decline associated with aging by reducing neuroinflammation and enhancing neurogenesis.
## Evidence from Animal Studies
1. **Cognitive Improvement in Aged Rats**: In studies involving aged rats, montelukast treatment for six weeks resulted in significant improvements in learning and memory functions. This was attributed to a decrease in neuroinflammation and restoration of blood-brain barrier integrity, which are critical factors in cognitive health[2][4].
2. **Mechanisms of Action**: The drug appears to work by inhibiting specific receptors (CysLT1 and GPR17) linked to inflammatory processes in the brain. This inhibition not only reduces inflammation but also promotes neurogenesis, thereby potentially reversing some cognitive deficits associated with aging[2][5].
3. **Neuroprotective Effects**: A retrospective analysis suggested that patients using montelukast had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to those on other asthma medications. This implies a possible neuroprotective effect that could be beneficial for cognitive health as people age[1][4].
## Human Studies and Clinical Implications
1. **Case Series Observations**: A case series involving patients with memory impairment reported subjective improvements in memory after montelukast administration. However, these observations were not uniform, as some patients with dementia showed less agitation but no significant memory improvement at the doses used[3].
2. **Need for Controlled Studies**: While initial findings are promising, there is a lack of controlled clinical trials directly assessing montelukast's effects on human cognitive function. Future studies are necessary to confirm its efficacy and to explore optimal dosing strategies for improving memory in older adults[1][3].
## Conclusion
Montelukast shows potential as a treatment for age-related memory loss based on animal studies and preliminary human observations. However, comprehensive clinical trials are needed to establish its effectiveness and safety profile in elderly populations before it can be recommended as a standard treatment for cognitive decline.
Citations:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8145277/
[2] https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms9466
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5420184/
[4] https://iv.iiarjournals.org/content/35/6/3297
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1878747923013247
[6] https://www.fda.gov/media/158486/download
[7] https://www.researchgate.net/public...ast_in_Patients_with_Memory_Loss_and_Dementia
[8] https://cen.acs.org/articles/93/i43/Asthma-Drug-Improves-Learning-Memory.html