Executive functions, processing speed, and memory performance: Untangling the age-related effects

Context: Age-related decline in memory function is a universal phenomenon. However, several factors are known to affect memory decline associated with aging. Aim: The present research aimed to study the differences between young adults and older adults in neurocognitive functions. It also aimed to examine the relative contribution of aging and executive functions to memory performance. Subjects and Methods: The sample consisted of two groups: 43 young adults and 40 older adults. Participants were selected from the community using purposive sampling. Each participant underwent screening using the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, Modified Mini Screen, and Global Cognitive Screen. A detailed neuropsychological assessment was individually conducted using standardized measures of executive functions, processing speed, episodic memory, and semantic memory. We examined group differences between younger and older participants using the Mann Whitney U test. Additionally, we investigated the contributions of age, processing speed, and executive function to memory through stepwise multiple regression analysis. Results: Analysis of the results suggests significantly worse performance by older participants compared to younger participants on learning and memory (p