A new study reveals that the brain’s ability to process and retain information may decline more sharply after age 70 than previously understood, challenging long-held assumptions about cognitive aging. Researchers found that while memory and learning skills weaken gradually in earlier decades, the rate of deterioration accelerates significantly in later life, particularly in tasks requiring rapid mental flexibility. The findings suggest that interventions targeting cognitive decline could benefit from focusing more on middle-aged and older adults rather than assuming steady decline across all ages. Experts note the work could reshape approaches to brain health and aging research.