What is it about?
As people get older, there are changes in their thinking and memory. In general, there is some decline in certain cognitive domains, such as speed of processing information and memory, while other aspects may remain quite stable or even improve over time. It is clear that not all individuals age to the same extent, however there have been a lack of studies which have tried to identify and characterise these patterns. This study brings together and summarises existing evidence to describe the normal patterns of cognitive ageing.
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Why is it important?
This study is important because it highlights the different patterns of cognitive ageing across individuals living in the community. It demonstrates that even in the absence of dementia, some individuals experience decline in cognition with advancing age. However it also demonstrates that for some individuals, even as they enter their 90's, cognitive function can remain at high levels.
Perspectives
I think it's important for older individuals to know that changes in their thinking ability and memory are a normal part of ageing, but in some areas of cognitive performance, especially language, knowledge and wisdom, they may even strengthen with age.
A/Prof. Joanne Ryan
Monash University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Distinct Cognitive Trajectories in Late Life and Associated Predictors and Outcomes: A Systematic Review, Journal of Alzheimer s Disease Reports, October 2020, IOS Press,
DOI: 10.3233/adr-200232.
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