How attention and memory change with age

Behavioral, Electrophysiological, and Pupil-based Rhythms of Attention and Memory in Young and Older Adults

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11117795

This study looks at how aging affects our attention and memory by comparing younger and older adults while they do memory tasks, using special tools to see how their brains and pupils respond.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117795 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how attention and memory processes are affected by aging, focusing on the differences between young and older adults. It uses advanced techniques like electroencephalography (EEG) and pupillometry to measure brain activity and pupil responses while participants perform memory tasks. By examining a well-defined group of cognitively healthy older adults and younger individuals, the study aims to uncover the neurocognitive mechanisms that underlie changes in attention and memory as people age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include cognitively unimpaired older adults who are not diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and younger adults.

Not a fit: Patients with diagnosed Alzheimer's disease or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for age-related cognitive decline.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive processes related to attention and memory, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.