Why do we Forget things as we get Old?
There are various reasons for this. Firstly, a region in the brain called the hippocampus. Is involved in the formation and recollection of memories. However, as years pass by, its volume decreases. Decreasing the capabilities of the hippocampus, and thus making us forgetful. Secondly, our brain cells or neurons have hair-like projections called dendrites. Dendrites help neurons receive signals from other neurons. However, with age, these dendrites retract or shrink. Many connections between neurons or synapses are lost. As a result, communication within the brain gets reduced. Thus we struggle to recall names, events, etc. Thirdly, studies suggest that with age. Our brain generates fewer chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. So, this might also play a role in declining memory. Lastly, it is also observed that with increasing age. Blood flow to our brain is reduced. As a result, the working of our neurons gets affected. Thus, we forget things more frequently.