Silent strokes
Some memory loss in old age may be linked to “silent strokes.”
Researchers at Columbia University recruited more than 650 people over age 65.
None had any signs of dementia.
They were all given MRI scans and tested on their memory and language skills.
Those found to have small spots of dead brain cells or “silent strokes” scored lower on the memory tests.
Silent strokes affect about a quarter of older adults.
