ABSTRACT
Aging brings widespread changes in cognitive function. Some cognitive changes may stem from global alterations in brain function; others may result from localized decline of specific neural structures. The neuropsychology of aging must distinguish between these sources of age-related decline and specify the neural mechanisms that underlie cognitive change. With the availability of high-resolution neuroimaging methods, cognitive modeling techniques, and comparisons with focal brain damage, neuropsychologists are well positioned to meet this challenge. The evidence that is beginning to emerge from these combined approaches has the potential to transform our understanding of the aging process.
