Just like a skilled magician who compensates for a missing card in a deck, our aging brains have a cunning trick up their sleeve. Inhibitory control, which helps us ignore distractions and focus on relevant information, plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. However, as we grow older, our brain’s structures and functions decline, affecting inhibitory control. But fear not! Researchers have discovered a fascinating phenomenon called the Compensation-Related Utilization of Neural Circuits Hypothesis (CRUNCH). According to CRUNCH, older adults recruit additional brain regions to make up for these declines when performing cognitive tasks. It’s like activating backup dancers on stage to enhance the performance! This review dives into the behavioral, functional, and structural changes related to inhibitory control in aging and supports the idea that CRUNCH may also account for functional inhibitory deficits in older adults. Excitingly, it suggests three promising directions for future research to unlock more secrets about our amazing brains. Want to dive deeper into this captivating topic? Check out the full article!
As one of the core executive functions, inhibitory control plays an important role in human life. Inhibitory control refers to the ability to suppress task irrelevant information both internally and externally. Modern cognitive neuroscience has extensively investigated the neural basis of inhibitory control, less is known about the inhibitory control mechanisms in aging. Growing interests in cognitive declines of aging have given raise to the compensation-related utilization of neural circuits hypothesis (CRUNCH). In this review, we survey both behavioral, functional, and structural changes relevant to inhibitory control in aging. In line with CRUNCH, we found that older adults engage additional brain regions than younger adults when performing the same cognitive task, to compensate for declining brain structures and functions. Moreover, we propose CRUNCH could well take functional inhibitory deficits in older adults into account. Finally, we provide three sensible future research directions.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.