Brain size linked to memory retention in a new study of ‘super agers’
As people reach the ages beyond 50s, their brains tend to shrink in volume and memory starts to decline. In people with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, there is notable shrinkage in parts of the brain involved with storing and retrieving memories. Although these widespread brain changes are considered entirely normal, mounting evidence suggests they may not be universal.
Researchers at the Massachusetts General Hospital are currently studying a unique group of adults in their 60s and 70s with minds as sharp as people in their 20s. The researchers believe that studying these ‘super agers’ could help them further understand the processes that lead to dementia and if there are ways to avoid them.
Cognitive and memory tests were given to 40 older people who are in their 60s and 70s, and 41 younger people aged 18 to 32. The test results showed that some of the older people had memory skills that rivalled those of the younger volunteers.
Brain scans revealed that the brain regions involved with learning and retaining new information in the ‘super agers’ showed no sign of typical age-related shrinkage. The tests also revealed that scores were correlated with brain size. Those who performed best in the tests had greater thickness in the key brain regions the researchers measured on MRI scans.
Several parts of the memory machinery in the brains of the 17 ‘super agers’ – including the anterior insula and orbitofrontal cortex and the hippocampus – appeared thicker and healthier than normal for people of their age.
Lead researcher Dr. Brad Dickenson said his findings built on those of colleagues from Northwestern University in Illinois, who coined the term super agers.
He also said the real question now is, “Can you make a person a super ager or are you born with it, and does it really make a difference in real life?”
They are hoping that the brain’s resilience may be a result of not just genetic factors but also the things that people do, like taking care of their physical fitness and eating a healthy diet. He also added that experts already know that certain factors, such as smoking and high cholesterol, age the brain faster.
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