SuperAgers Show Attenuated Age-Related Decline in Episodic Memory: Longitudinal Evidence from the Yakumo Study.

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined longitudinal changes in episodic memory performance in SuperAgers (SAs) and typical older adults (TOAs), focusing on whether SAs avoid age-related decline or show a slower rate of decline.

Methods: Data were drawn from the Yakumo Study. Participants who completed episodic memory assessments on at least two occasions between ages 60 and 85 were classified as SAs or TOAs based on Logical Memory Test performance. Age-related changes were analyzed using regression models including age, group, and their interaction.

Results: SAs performed significantly better than TOAs across the observed age range. A significant Age × Group interaction was found, indicating different rates of decline between groups (F(1, 678) = 7.26, p = .007). Although memory performance declined significantly in both groups, the decline was less pronounced in SAs (β =  -0.164) than in TOAs (β =  -0.316). Analyses of standardized scores further showed that SAs maintained their relative cognitive standing more effectively than TOAs.

Conclusions: SAs are not immune to age-related decline but exhibit a significantly attenuated rate of decline. These findings suggest that super-aging reflects both superior baseline memory performance and greater preservation over time, consistent with Brain Maintenance and Cognitive Reserve frameworks.