Brain aging and memory decline factors identified by experts

Research and medical experts are highlighting the biological and lifestyle factors that contribute to brain aging and memory decline. Neurologist Prof. Dr. Derya Uludüz notes that while brain volume begins to decrease slowly in the 20s, changes in memory and planning become more pronounced after age 40. Key contributors to accelerated aging include chronic stress, which raises cortisol levels and can affect the hippocampus, and hormonal shifts in both men and women.

Physical activity is also cited as a critical factor, as exercise releases BDNF, a growth factor that supports new neural connections. A sedentary lifestyle can weaken these protective mechanisms.

Complementary research from the University of East Anglia examined how different types of memory are affected by age. A study comparing young adults to older adults found that elderly participants struggled more with switching between episodic memories (personal experiences) and semantic memories (general facts). While older adults could still recall specific major events like birthday parties, they had more difficulty with mundane, repetitive memories and often relied more on general information rather than rich, sensory details like specific sounds or emotions.