Impaired Windkessel function and proximal aortic stiffness: Linking vascular ageing to cognitive decline.

Abstract

Central arterial stiffening, particularly of the proximal aorta, is increasingly recognised as a pivotal contributor to cardiovascular disease, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment. Loss of Windkessel function amplifies pulsatile pressure, reduces diastolic perfusion and accelerates microvascular damage in the brain. Evidence from epidemiological studies, magnetic resonance imaging investigations and longitudinal data demonstrates disproportionate age-related stiffening of the proximal aorta and its strong association with cognitive decline. Importantly, this process is modifiable: aerobic exercise and unique environmental adaptations, such as those observed in Japanese Ama divers, preserve proximal aortic elasticity. Targeting central arterial stiffness may represent a promising strategy for preventing both vascular disease and brain dysfunction.