Relationship between neurometabolism and cognitive deficits in the elderly

Introduction. There are significant changes in the course and quality of mental activity, memory, attention, and perception processes with age. Personality and behavior changes are also observed. These phenomena are largely due to the age-related involution of the nervous system. However, to date, those neurophysiological markers that can indicate the development of pathology and its degree, as well as help build a prognosis and ensure timely correction of dementia, have not been sufficiently studied. Aims. To study the features of cerebral energy metabolism in elderly people (60+) with cognitive impairments of varying severity and to develop a method for their correction. Materials and methods. The study involved 30 people, ages 60 to 85, with mild and moderate cognitive impairment. Cognitive decline was measured with the Montreal Cognitive Function Assessment Scale (MoCA). The neurometabolic activity of the brain was evaluated with neuroenergy mapping. Brain activation and functional state were evaluated by omega potentials. Results. In the group of people with mild cognitive disorders, there was a 2-3-fold excess of constant potentials compared to the reference values, a rigid response to the load, and a delayed recovery after load. Hypoxic changes were found in all subjects and were accompanied by acidification of brain tissue and oxidative stress. In the group with severe cognitive deficits, there was a general decrease in neurometabolism and activation of the cerebral cortex, which indicates the depletion of the adaptive mechanisms of the nervous system. Conclusion. Thus, pronounced changes in neurometabolism and brain activity were found in elderly people with decreased cognitive functions. Neurofeedback therapy combined with traditional forms of psychological correction helps increase its effectiveness and normalize brain function.