Memory and the ageing brain - What changes and what we can do?

Memory is crucial to shape who we are, yet it declines with advancing age.  In this talk, we will explore how memories are formed and consolidated, particularly during sleep and periods of rest. I will present findings from young and older adults, shedding light on how sleep and brain networks evolve with age. I will also discuss the concept of cognitive reserve—why some individuals maintain better memory despite aging—and whether it can help compensate for neural changes. Finally, I will dive into some non-invasive interventions and examine their potential to support memory in aging.

The Speaker : Alison Mary

My main research interests focus on memory and its cerebral underpinnings, especially using functional connectivity and resting state networks. I completed my PhD in January 2016 at UR2nF/CRCN, under the supervision of Pr. Philippe Peigneux. During my PhD, I investigated the neurophysiological mechanisms subtending learning and memory consolidation in healthy ageing, using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG).
From November 2016 to October 2019, I conducted a post-doc under the supervision of Dr. Pierre Gagnepain at the U1077 Unit (Neuropsychology and Imaging of Human Memory – NIMH, Caen, France), headed by Pr. Francis Eustache. This research project aimed at identifying the structural and functional neurobiological markers promoting resilience in individuals exposed to the 13th November 2015 Paris terrorist attacks.
In November 2019, I came back at the UR2nF/CRCN, with a FNRS postdoc fellowship. Since October 2023, I am FNRS Research associate and the overarching goal of my research project is to investigate promising non-pharmacological stimulation strategies to shed light on the brain mechanisms supporting the preservation of memory processes in healthy ageing.