There have been a series of studies that suggest that age-related memory problems are due to a lack of focus. As we age, we become less able to ignore irrelevant information. This contributes to having more problems forming memories and remembering things.

Though on the bright side there is some research that suggests the age-related lack of focus may have benefits for problem solving and wisdom. See the post aging brains have improved function.

In a previous study, two groups of participants, one set young, the other older, were shown sets of black and white images in random order, 2 of which were faces and 2 were outdoor scenes. Prior to seeing the images the participants were told to remember one category and that they would later have to say whether a new image was from that category. Analysis of brain activity showed that the older participants had much more brain activity than the younger ones when images from a wrong category were displayed.

These findings indicated that the older participants were less able to ignore the irrelevant information.

A new study using the same types of tests looked at the speed of processing information. The researchers found that the older participants were slower at processing the irrelevant data than the younger participants. This slower speed of processing somehow then interfered with the ability commit the relevant information to memory.

This is another step to understanding the processes by which we have impaired memory. In the future, with this understanding it may be possible to develop brain training to exercise particular parts of the memory process. Though this might not stop age-related memory problems, but could slow down the progression.

I am walking proof this concept of lack of focus. I have always had a problem remembering names, but it has become a lot worse. After I am introduced to someone, later I usually cannot remember their name. I can tell you what they were wearing, where they were standing, what they said. But, their name …

photo credit: karindalziel

[tags]age-related memory problems, irrelevant information, speed[/tags]