Age-associated cognitive decline

INTRODUCTION: Age-associated cognitive decline-or normal (non-pathological, normative, usual) cognitive ageing-is an important human experience which differs in extent between individuals. The determinants of the differences in age-related cognitive decline are not fully understood. Progress in the field is taking place across many areas of biomedical and psychosocial sciences. AREAS OF AGREEMENT AND CONTROVERSY: The phenotype of normal cognitive ageing is well described. Some mental capabilities are well maintained into old age. From early adulthood, there are declines in mental domains such as processing speed, reasoning, memory and executive functions, some of which is underpinned by a decline in a general…

• UO
  University of Edinburgh
• CF
  Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology
• MR
  Medical Research Council
• EA
  Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
• BA
  Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
• EA
  Economic and Social Research Council