Vivid dreaming usually happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, when the brain is very active and dreams feel clear and detailed. Most people experience vivid dreams occasionally, but sometimes these dreams can become so intense or frequent that they…
Hormone fluctuations during menopause, especially the decline in estrogen, can significantly affect spatial awareness. Estrogen influences the vestibular system, which is part of the inner ear and brain responsible for balance and spatial orientation. When estrogen levels drop during perimenopause…
Some people with dementia become unusually quiet because the changes in their brain affect how they process emotions, communicate, and interact with others. As dementia progresses, it can become harder for them to express their needs or feelings through words,…
Forgetfulness and dementia both involve memory problems, but they are very different in how they affect a person’s life. Forgetfulness is a normal part of aging and usually happens occasionally. For example, you might forget where you put your keys…
Estrogen plays a crucial role in keeping the brain clear and sharp. It supports brain function by boosting important chemicals called neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These chemicals help regulate mood, motivation, focus, and memory. Estrogen also helps…
When the brain begins to decline, whether due to aging, injury, or disease, the way the body responds to stress changes significantly. Normally, when you face a stressful situation—like danger or a challenge—the brain activates a system called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal…
As people grow older, everyday noises that once seemed normal can suddenly feel overwhelming or even unbearable. This change happens mainly because of how aging affects the ears and brain’s ability to process sound. One key reason is **age-related hearing…
Subtle signs that indicate a drop in executive function often start small and can easily be overlooked. Executive function involves skills like planning, decision-making, problem-solving, and managing daily tasks. When these abilities begin to decline, you might notice: – **Forgetfulness…
Hallucinations in Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease differ mainly in their frequency, timing, and nature. In Parkinson’s disease, especially Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD), hallucinations tend to be more common and usually appear after motor symptoms like stiffness and slow movement…
Alzheimer’s symptoms often get worse in the evening due to a phenomenon called **sundowning**. This involves increased confusion, agitation, restlessness, and mood changes that tend to appear or intensify as daylight fades. People with Alzheimer’s may become more anxious, irritable,…