A rare group of adults over 80, known as SuperAgers, can remember as well as people in their 50s, challenging the belief that memory decline is inevitable. Scientists now understand why: their brains either resist or withstand the damage typically linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
The Research
For more than 25 years, researchers at Northwestern Medicine have studied people 80 and older who perform on memory tests at levels similar to people at least 30 years younger. The team, led by Dr. Sandra Weintraub from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, analyzed 290 participants and 77 donated brains. The findings were published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Our findings show that exceptional memory in old age is not only possible but is linked to a distinct neurobiological profile,” said Weintraub. SuperAgers score at least 9 out of 15 on delayed word recall—matching people in their 50s and 60s. Their brains show little to no thinning of the cortex; in some, the anterior cingulate cortex is even thicker than in younger adults. They also have higher numbers of von Economo neurons, which are linked to social behavior, and larger entorhinal neurons critical for memory.
Notably, some SuperAgers’ brains had amyloid and tau proteins (plaques and tangles) associated with Alzheimer’s, while others showed none. “One is resistance: they don’t make the plaques and tangles. Two is resilience: they make them, but they don’t do anything to their brains,” Weintraub explained.
Why It Matters
These findings suggest that cognitive decline is not inevitable. By identifying biological and behavioral patterns linked to SuperAging, researchers hope to develop strategies to strengthen cognitive resilience and reduce dementia risk. For example, most SuperAgers are highly social and maintain close relationships, hinting that social engagement may protect the brain.
What You Can Do
While you can’t fully control your brain biology, you can adopt habits linked to SuperAging: stay socially active, challenge your mind regularly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. These actions may help preserve memory as you age.
Source: ScienceDaily Mind & Brain
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