A few weeks ago there was a spot on 20/20 which discussed the
effects of aging on working memory. The experts they interviewed were
claiming that a progressive degeneration of the hippocampus was
responsible for declines in working memory.
I've always understood that the hippocampus was only involved in
consolidation - or transfer into long term memory. My undergrad
neuroscience textbook also states that the ubiquitous ex-hippocampal
patient H.M.'s short-term memory was "intact." H.M. suffered from
anterograde amnesia, specifically in declarative memory.
What are your thoughts on this matter?
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Jeremy Leipzig http://www.mindspring.com/~jeremyl
(919)469-0936
1204 Kilmory Dr. Cary, NC 27511
jeremyl at mindspring.com