Age differences in specific neural connections within the Default Mode Network underlie theory of mind

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Colleen HughesAnne C Krendl

Abstract

Theory of mind (i.e., the ability to infer others' mental states) - a fundamental social cognitive ability - declines with increasing age. Prior investigations have focused on identifying task-evoked differences in neural activation that underlie these performance declines. However, these declines could also be related to dysregulation of the baseline, or 'intrinsic', functional connectivity of the brain. If so, age differences in intrinsic connectivity may provide novel insight into the mechanisms that contribute to poorer theory of mind in older adults. To examine this possibility, we assessed younger and older adults' theory of mind while they underwent task-based fMRI, as well as the intrinsic functional connectivity measured during resting-state within the (task-defined) theory of mind network. Older adults exhibited poorer theory of mind behavioral performance and weaker intrinsic connectivity within this network compared to younger adults. Intrinsic connectivity between the right temporoparietal junction and the right temporal pole mediated age differences in theory of mind. Specifically, older adults had weaker intrinsic connectivity between right temporoparietal junction and right temporal pole that explained their poo...Continue Reading

Citations

Jan 23, 2020·Neuropsychology, Development, and Cognition. Section B, Aging, Neuropsychology and Cognition·Brittany S CassidyAnne C Krendl
May 14, 2020·Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·Anne C LauritaR Nathan Spreng

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