TL/DR –
University of Michigan experts express that age does not necessarily equate to cognitive decline in politicians. Gerontologist Sheria Robinson-Lane states that aging can actually improve emotional regulation and coping abilities, and warns against age bias when considering political candidates. Other researchers, including Amanda Sonnega and Eleanna Varangis, clarify that while risk of dementia increases with age, education and activities can maintain cognitive health, and not all cognitive changes are related to age.
The Debate Around the Age of Political Candidates: Insights From Experts
The age of politicians has sparked considerable debate this election season. Experts from the University of Michigan are on hand to provide valuable insights.
Sheria Robinson-Lane, a gerontologist, highlights that aging is not necessarily linked to significant memory loss. Emotional regulation also tends to improve with age. The impact of age on cognitive performance can vary tremendously, and the long-term effects of coronavirus remain unclear. Hence, it’s crucial to examine all factors affecting the ability of a candidate to perform optimally.
Contact: grices@med.umich.edu
Amanda Sonnega notes that despite increased education and improved treatment for cardiovascular risk factors, the overall burden of dementia is expected to grow due to the rapidly increasing older population.
Contact: asonnega@umich.edu
Eleanna Varangis explains that older age is associated with changes in memory, processing speed, and executive functioning, but also with improved vocabulary and general knowledge. Regular exercise, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation are beneficial for cognitive health in older age.
Contact: varangis@umich.edu
Patricia Reuter-Lorenz states that the brain can adapt, learn new things, and compensate for age-related decline even in older age.
Contact: parl@umich.edu
Jacqui Smith specializes in age- and health-related changes in subjective well-being and cognition in midlife and old age.
Contact: smitjacq@umich.edu
Bruno Giordiani focuses on cognition and mobility performance across the lifespan, developmental cognitive and attention disorders, and the neuropsychological aspects of progressive memory disorders and movement disorders.
Contact: giordani@med.umich.edu
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