Memory loss not caused by age alone, scientists say

Age-related brain changes are not the sole cause of memory decline, according to new research reported by Vice.

Researchers say weakening memory appears to be linked more to overall deterioration of brain function than to damage in a specific brain region.

The study found that episodic memory – the ability to recall past events – does decline with age. However, the process does not occur uniformly in all individuals.

While the hippocampus, one of the brain’s main memory-related structures, plays a crucial role, memory loss cannot be explained solely by damage to this area.

In particular, some people over the age of 60 experience faster-than-average brain volume reduction, associated with broader patterns of brain atrophy.

Scientists say that if confirmed, the findings could shift the understanding of memory decline from a localized issue to a widespread functional disruption of the brain. This may pave the way for new and more effective treatment approaches for memory disorders.