What cognitive effect is most likely to occur as a person ages?

As individuals age, cognitive function generally declines due to a variety of biological and neurological factors. This decline can manifest in several areas, including memory, processing speed, and executive functions. Research indicates that while some types of long-term memory (such as procedural memory) may remain stable or even improve, other aspects, notably episodic memory and working memory, tend to decline as people get older.

Additionally, the brain undergoes structural changes, such as the reduction in the volume of certain areas and the decrease in the number of neurons and synapses, which can impact overall cognitive capabilities. As a result, the ability to quickly process information and make decisions can also be affected, leading to slower decision-making. Thus, the understanding that cognitive function generally declines with age is well-supported by research in the fields of psychology and neuroscience.