ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the negative effects of stress, especially on memory and learning. Stress causes a cascade of chemical changes in the brain that affects hormonal levels and cognitive ability. One of the mechanisms by which stress impairs memory is through the release of a class of hormones known as glucocorticoids, especially cortisol. Exercise helps to metabolize the chemical by-products of stress and can lead to the release of endorphins, which can make a person feel better. Meditation is a wonderful way to gain better control of thoughts and therefore control anxiety and reduce stress. Experiencing depression as a result of stress may be another mechanism whereby older adults' memory abilities are compromised. Depression wreaks havoc on older adults' memory and cognitive abilities, and that depression may be a by-product of stress. One interesting finding was that interpersonal stressors were associated with increased memory problems for the day there was the interpersonal stress.
