Physical Factors in old Age
The reduction of certain chemicals (biogenic amines) in the brain is thought to be related to depressive mood. There is some evidence that the level of biogenic amines falls in the ageing brain,which could increase susceptibility to depression.
As the brain gets older, more and more brain cells die. At the same time the arteries may get narrower, so that the blood and oxygen supply to the brain is limited. The brain becomes more vulnerable when the oxygen supply is reduced because of a respiratory condition, or when diet is inadequate. These and other factors may be related to longer reaction times, more inflexibility, increasing caution and decreasing ability to adjust to new situations, all of which are commoner as you get older. But it is important not to assume that these effects are physically caused, as depression causes the same effects and is changeable. The loss of the capacity to adjust to new situations may make any changes, such as moving house, much harder than before the advent of old age. (more…)
