The reality of memory in healthy older and aging. Memory, aging and longevity

Abstract

This literature review aimed to verify the scientific production on “memory, cognitive development, aging versus longevity”, identifying and analyzing international and national studies. The method carried out was through a research in the bases: SciELO, UAM, PePSIC, LILACS, PubMed, PsycINFO, Dialnet and Teseo; in a period of 10 years, considering the studies published between January 2008 and December 2017. Results were found 793 studies, 16 articles were analyzed after the application of the exclusion criteria, highlighting the following statements: the commitment, the Cognitive performance and a greater sense of purpose can serve as endophenotypes of longevity and a higher probability of survival. Similarly, several studies determined that learning new skills, the orientation to search for novelty, learn new things and keep the mind engaged are key to achieving a successful cognitive aging. Thus, training in the ability to solve problems of daily life, improves cognition and is associated with greater performance of current memory. In addition, training generates changes in cognitive performance. In short, living a busy lifestyle is associated with better cognition. Conclusion: the analysis revealed that in addition to the genetic characteristics that may condition longevity, there are other non-genetic aspects, such as learning new tasks, commitment, sense of purpose, occupation of the mind, cognitive performance, activities related to thinking, the search for solutions to problems etc., which would favor the longevity of people in a successful aging.

Keywords

• memoria
• envejecimiento
• desarrollo cognitivo
• longevidad