Neurocognitive Aging and the Compensation Hypothesis

Authors: Reuter-Lorenz, Patricia A.; Cappell, Katherine A.

Source: Current Directions in Psychological Science, Volume 17, Number 3, June 2008 , pp. 177-182(6)

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Abstract:

The most unexpected and intriguing result from functional brain imaging studies of cognitive aging is evidence for age-related overactivation: greater activation in older adults than in younger adults, even when performance is age-equivalent. Here we examine the hypothesis that age-related overactivation is compensatory and discuss the compensation-related utilization of neural circuits hypothesis (CRUNCH). We review evidence that favors a compensatory account, discuss questions about strategy differences, and consider the functions that may be served by overactive brain areas. Future research directed at neurocognitively informed training interventions may augment the potential for plasticity that persists into the later years of the human lifespan.

Keywords: plasticity; dedifferentiation; brain imaging; working memory

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2008.00570.x

Affiliations: 1: University of Michigan

Publication date: 2008-06-01