What aspect of memory is likely to decline more significantly with age?

Free recall is a type of memory task that involves retrieving information without any cues, which requires more effortful processing and the organization of information in memory. Research shows that free recall tasks tend to decline more significantly with age compared to other types of memory. This decline can be attributed to factors such as reduced processing speed, difficulties with cognitive flexibility, and challenges in creating and maintaining the organizational structures needed for effective retrieval without prompts.

In contrast, recognition memory, which involves identifying previously learned information when presented with it, is generally more stable with age. Immediate recall, or the ability to retrieve information shortly after learning, may also decline but tends to be less affected than free recall. Procedural memory, which involves the memory for skills and tasks (such as riding a bike or typing), is known to be relatively preserved in older adults, even as other aspects of memory decline. Thus, free recall stands out as the aspect most likely to decline significantly with aging.