Cognitive Changes and the Aging Brain

This book describes the changes in the brain and in cognitive functions that occur with aging in the absence of a neurological, psychiatric, or medical disease. It discusses aging-related changes in many brain functions, including memory, language, sensory perception, motor function, creativity, attention, executive functions, emotions and mood. The neural mechanisms that may account for specific aging-related changes in cognition, perception and behavior are explored, as well as the means by which aging-related cognitive decrements can be managed and possibly ameliorated. Consequently, this book will be of value to clinicians, including neurologists, psychiatrists, geriatricians, primary care physicians, psychologists and speech-language pathologists. In addition, researchers and graduate students who want to learn about the aging brain will find this an indispensable guide.

Kenneth M. Heilman is Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, and Staff Neurologist at the Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, and Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Florida. Stephen E. Nadeau is Professor at the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, and Associate Chief of Staff for Research, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Florida.