Neuromodulation: Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Enhancement in the Elderly

Aging is accompanied by progressive changes in brain structure and function that may affect cognition, emotional regulation, and adaptive behavior. While mild cognitive decline is often considered a component of normal aging, many older adults experience impairments in memory, attention, executive function, and processing speed that can compromise independence and quality of life. In addition, neuropsychiatric manifestations such as apathy, depression, sleep disturbances, and reduced cognitive flexibility frequently emerge during aging and may precede or accompany neurodegenerative disorders.Increasing evidence indicates that many of these changes reflect alterations in neural plasticity and network dynamics. Age-related reductions in synaptic plasticity, neurotransmitter signaling, and large-scale connectivity patterns may contribute to diminished cognitive resilience. However, the aging brain retains substantial adaptive plasticity, suggesting that targeted interventions could enhance cognitive performance and functional recovery.Neuromodulation has emerged as a promising strategy to influence neural circuit activity and promote neuroplasticity. Techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial electrical stimulation, focused ultrasound, vagus nerve stimulation, and other non-invasive or minimally invasive approaches are increasingly being explored for their potential to enhance cognitive function, improve mood, and modulate brain network dynamics in older adults. Despite growing interest, the mechanisms through which neuromodulation influences plasticity in aging brains remain incompletely understood, and optimal protocols for cognitive enhancement and neuropsychiatric symptom management have yet to be established.This Research Topic seeks to advance mechanistic insights, diagnostic frameworks, and therapeutic strategies related to neuromodulation, neuroplasticity, and cognitive enhancement in the elderly. By bringing together original research and authoritative reviews, the initiative aims to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue across neuroscience, psychiatry, gerontology, and neuroengineering while identifying key knowledge gaps in this rapidly evolving field.We welcome submissions that investigate the mechanisms, clinical applications, and translational potential of neuromodulation to promote cognitive health and brain plasticity in aging populations. Studies may be preclinical, clinical, or translational and may focus on specific cognitive domains, neuropsychiatric manifestations, or interventions designed to enhance brain resilience.Relevant topics include, but are not limited to:- Neuroplasticity and brain network dynamics in aging- Cognitive enhancement strategies in older adults- Memory, attention, and executive function modulation through neuromodulation- Transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial electrical stimulation in aging populations- Focused ultrasound and emerging neuromodulation technologies- Neuromodulation combined with cognitive training or neurorehabilitation- Neuromodulation for depression, apathy, sleep disturbances, and other neuropsychiatric symptoms in the elderly.- Biomarkers of cognitive decline and neuroplasticity (neuroimaging, EEG, CSF, or omics approaches)- Longitudinal studies of cognitive aging and brain network adaptation- Connectomic and neurotransmitter alterations associated with aging-related cognitive changes- Clinical trials evaluating neuromodulation for cognitive improvement- Multimodal approaches integrating neuromodulation, behavioural therapies, and digital health tools- Patient-centred outcomes, functional independence, and quality-of-life perspectives in aging populations Topic editors: Oscar Arias-Carrión, Emmanuel Ortega-Robles, Elias Manjarrez Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81216/neuromodulation-neuroplasticity-and-cognitive-enhancement-in-the-elderly