Still Wanting to Win: Reward System Stability in Healthy Aging
Laura Opitz1,2, Franziska Wagner1,2,3, Jenny Rogenz1,2
1Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience
|June 16, 2022
Summary
Healthy aging preserves the brain's reward system. Older adults show unique neural connectivity patterns, indicating distinct compensatory mechanisms for maintaining reward function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Aging
- Gerontology
Background:
- Healthy aging impacts brain networks, particularly cognitive and motivational systems.
- A stable reward system is crucial for elderly adaptation and daily functioning.
- Reward system function is notably preserved in older adults compared to other cognitive abilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the compensatory mechanisms underlying reward system stability in healthy aging.
- To analyze cortical reward-related network connectivity using electroencephalography (EEG).
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Monetary Incentive Delay Task (MID) in young and old participants.
- Employed EEG measurements to capture brain activity.
- Applied EEG connectivity analyses to assess functional brain networks.
Main Results:
- Behavioral data confirmed preserved reward system function in older adults.
- Older adults displayed reduced reward-related connectivity modulation compared to younger adults.
- Distinct patterns of brain activity were observed, including greater reliance on posterior and right-lateralized areas, and reversed connectivity modulation during reward conditions.
Conclusions:
- The aging reward system employs unique compensatory mechanisms not previously described in cognitive aging models.
- These findings suggest distinct neural pathways for maintaining reward function in older age.
- The study offers novel insights into the cortical reward network connectivity during healthy aging.
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