Both episodic memory and working memory decline with age. However it has been noted that well-preserved memory functioning is preserved in subpopulations of older individuals. The authors of this review discuss brain maintenance (or relative lack of brain pathology), and put forward the idea that it constitutes the primary determinant of successful memory aging. They discuss brain maintenance at different levels: cellular, neurochemical, gray- and white-matter integrity, and systems-level activation patterns. There are a number of genetic and lifestyle factors which support brain maintenance in aging. Interestingly, brain dopamine appears to be involved in cognitive aging. There is evidence that preserved dopamine functioning in aging is associated with preserved cognitive performance. The authors discuss interventions which may promote maintenance of brain structure and function in later life.
Nyberg L, Lövdén M, Riklund K, Lindenberger U, Bäckman L: Memory aging and brain maintenance. Trends Cognitive Sciences 16(5): 292-305 (2012).
