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Updated: Nov 8, 2025

Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
Left-prefrontal alpha-dynamics predict executive working-memory functioning in elderly people
Oded Meiron1, Elishai Ezra Tsur2, Hagai Factor1
1Clinical Research Center for Brain Sciences, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
Electroencephalography (EEG) alpha and theta oscillations reveal brain activity linked to executive working memory (EWM) in older adults. Altered patterns may indicate cognitive decline or neurological disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Gerontology
Background:
- Electroencephalography (EEG) theta and alpha oscillations are linked to cognitive control and executive working memory (EWM) in humans.
- Age-related neurological changes may alter these brain oscillations, potentially indicating pre-dementia or cognitive impairments in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess executive working memory (EWM) functioning in older adults using EEG.
- To investigate the relationship between WM performance, EEG oscillations, and cognitive function in aging.
Main Methods:
- Recorded EEG oscillations and WM performance in older adults (54-83 years) during online and offline WM tasks.
- Analyzed left-prefrontal alpha power and anterior-posterior theta power gradients during various WM states.
Main Results:
- Left-prefrontal alpha power was higher during offline WM periods and correlated with WM accuracy.
- Alpha and theta power gradients during online WM related to reaction times.
- Excessive left-prefrontal alpha activity during specific WM events was linked to poorer EWM performance.
Conclusions:
- EEG oscillations, particularly left-prefrontal alpha activity, are associated with EWM performance in older adults.
- Findings suggest potential for EEG-based biomarkers for monitoring cognitive decline and developing cognition-enhancing interventions in the elderly.
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