Constructing conceptual knowledge in ageing: how cognitive mechanisms of learning and memory change with age
The ageing population and increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia underscore the urgent need to understand cognitive decline in old age. While previous studies have shown that some cognitive functions, like autobiographical memory and semantic conceptual knowledge, remain stable, others such as processing speed and new memory encoding decline more rapidly, highlighting the complex nature of cognitive ageing.
This PhD project will focus on the age-associated changes in cognitive processes related to concept formation. Concept formation is critical for understanding the world and adapting to new environments, yet there is a gap in the current understanding of how the underlying cognitive processes change with age, particularly across the span of concept learning. To address this, I will employ cognitive modelling with deep learning algorithms to describe and explain changes in the underlying cognitive processes. This will supplement behavioural and neuroimaging experiments investigating the difference between young (18-35yrs) and older (60-80yrs) adults in early learning and concept consolidation. A key component involves modifying models to conform to old participants’ performance through brain-inspired artificial damage.
Furthermore, neuroimaging will allow linking findings to changes in underlying brain activity and structure. By addressing gaps in the understanding of age-associated changes in concept learning, this project will enhance our comprehension of cognitive decline in ageing and contribute to developing therapies and treatments for age-related cognitive decline.
The findings of the project hold the potential to improve the quality of life for the ageing population and guide future research of age-related cognitive illnesses like dementia.