https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/P_BNPSOUDTo provide an overview of the most important cognitive changes associated with normal aging and dementia, as well as associated brain changes.Worldwide, the population is getting older and the number of older people (60 years and over) greatly increases, and thus also the number of people with dementia. This course addresses changes in cognitive function, distinguishing between changes occurring in normal aging and in abnormal aging, especially dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Characteristics of different forms of dementia are compared and the diagnostic attempts to distinguish the different shapes are discussed. Changes in brain structure and brain function associated with normal aging and various forms of dementia are linked to the cognitive changes. Individual differences in cognitive aging are presented as well as the implications of these differences for risk factors for dementia and potential prevention of dementia.LecturesMultiple choice exam and short answer open questionsBush, S.S. & Yochim, B.P. (2022). A Handbook of Geriatric Neuropsychology. 2nd Edition. Routledge. Tuokko, H. & Smart, C. (2018). Neuropsychology of Cognitive Decline. Guildford Press.