ESPE Yearbook of Paediatric Endocrinology

Nat Hum Behav. 2022;6(1):97-110. doi: 10.1038/s41562-021-01169-7. PubMed ID: 34413509

Brief summary: This cross-sectional study of adults (N=702) aged 58–98 measured cognitive abilities across a range of domains (alerting, orienting and executive inhibitory networks) by use of a computer-based Attention Network Test. In non-linear regression models, while efficiency of the alerting network declined with age, orienting and executive inhibitory efficiency improved with age up to the mid-to-late 70s.

This topic is no doubt of interest to many of our ‘more mature’ readers (and editors!). We generally assume, and many scientists believe, that cognitive functions, such as attention, executive function, and reasoning skills, decline with age. This study challenges that belief. In a large sample spanning a wide age range, they find that certain cognitive functions improve with age, even to late 70s. A decline was seen for alerting efficiency, for example the heightened preparedness when you approach a junction while driving a car. Conversely, age-related improvements were seen in orienting, which occurs when you shift your attention to an unexpected movement such as a pedestrian or cyclist, and also in executive inhibitory efficiency, which allows you to inhibit distractions, for example due to your noisy passengers or interesting sights next to the road.

An exciting implication of the findings relates to the use of ‘brain training’ exercises. It seems most unlikely that the improvements are due to anatomical neural development at such advanced ages. Instead, the authors suggest that some abilities improve because adults practice these skills throughout their life. The authors comment that it may certainly be possible to enhance executive inhibitory function with training and practice. Beyond the traits measured here, it is well recognised that some cognitive functions decline with ageing, especially our memory and ability to learn new skills. However, cognitive skills that improve with practice are usually well preserved, such as understanding and use of language.