Will age-associated memory impairment & cognitive decline keep getting worse?

    Written by:
    Louie Neri

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Morgan Pfiffner, Graham Walker
    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Age-associated memory impairment and cognitive decline do not always worsen because crystallized intelligence remains stable and can even increase with age, whereas fluid intelligence, particularly processing speed and working memory, tends to decline. Crystallized intelligence, which includes accumulated knowledge and skills, reaches a plateau around 80 years old.

    No, not always. Some aspects of cognitive function, specifically crystallized intelligence, are unaffected by AAMCD.

    The term "crystallized intelligence" refers to abilities and knowledge accumulated over time (i.e., language and historical information). In contrast, “fluid intelligence” refers to the ability to solve new problems without drawing on prior knowledge (e.g.., solving puzzles and complex math problems).

    It should be no surprise that crystallized intelligence rises steadily throughout life, reaching a plateau at around 80 years old. On the other hand, as a person ages, fluid intelligence—specifically, processing speed and working memory—declines steadily.[1]