Why do we not see cognitive declines in older adulthood that might be expected because of the brain volume shrinkage that occurs in aging?
A) Older adults compensate for cognitive declines by showing more brain activity and using different brain areas in solving problems than do younger adults.
B) Tests of cognitive ability that are administered to older adults do not measure the same areas of cognitive functioning that are given to younger adults.
C) Individuals in older adulthood are more likely to avoid activities that require cognitive effort.
D) Family members compensate for older adults and perform cognitive tasks for them, thereby reducing their need for performing highly complex cognitive tasks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Older adults are able to compensate for cognitive declines by showing more brain activity and using different brain areas in solving problems than do younger adults. This ability to adapt to changes in the brain is known as neuroplasticity. Research has shown that older adults can engage different neural networks to perform cognitive tasks, even when their brain volume has decreased.

Why Do We Not See Cognitive Declines in Older Adulthood