Some people reach their 80s with the memory of someone decades younger—scientists want to know why

The useful part

Some people enter their 80s and 90s with memories so sharp that researchers compare them with people 20 or 30 years younger. They are often called SuperAgers, and scientists have spent decades trying to understand what sets them apart. The question is bigger than why a few fortunate people remember names and appointments unusually well.

How it works

• Researchers hope these exceptional older adults can reveal how the brain resists—or sometimes tolerates—the biological changes associated with aging and Alzheimer's disease.
• According to Northwestern's 25-year SuperAging research, participants score at least nine out of 15 on a […] The post <a href="https://www.fodmapever...
• The answers so far are fascinating, but they do not add up to a simple SuperAger formula.
• SuperAgers are exceptional by definition The term does not simply mean an older person who seems mentally sharp.

What to take from it

At Northwestern University, SuperAgers are adults over 80 whose memory performance is comparable with people decades younger.