Age-related memory problems occur due to declines in the neural networks of a certain area of the brain, but this problem may be reversible, a new study in animals suggests. Yale University researchers found that the neural networks in the prefrontal cortex of older lab animals have weaker connections and fire less strongly than in younger animals. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for higher cognitive and executive functions, including working memory. Working memory, which is the basis for abstract thought and reasoning, enables humans to recall information such as where they left their car keys.
