How can I tell if I am a SuperAger?

Oct 2, 2025 3 min read •

biology genetics neuroscience

Research from Northwestern University's SuperAging Program shows that SuperAgers, aged 80 and older, have memory capabilities comparable to people 20-30 years younger. This raises a question: how can I tell if I am a SuperAger? It's not a self-diagnosis, but rather an identification based on measurable cognitive performance and unique brain characteristics.

Quick Summary

Determining if you are a SuperAger relies on a formal neuropsychological evaluation, as defined by researchers, who assess exceptional memory performance against specific age norms, particularly after age 80. Scientific insights into brain structure and function, including unique neuronal density and slower cortical shrinkage, further distinguish this rare group from average agers.

Key Points

No Self-Diagnosis: You cannot self-identify as a SuperAger; the designation requires formal neuropsychological testing, comparing your memory to younger age groups.
Memory Benchmark: The primary test is the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), where SuperAgers aged 80+ score as well as a typical person in their 50s.
Unique Brain Structure: Scans reveal SuperAgers have a thicker cortex and a slower rate of brain shrinkage compared to their peers.
Cellular Differences: Unique cellular traits, like a higher density of special von Economo neurons, are found in SuperAger brains.
Strong Social Ties: A consistent lifestyle factor among SuperAgers is a high degree of social engagement and strong, positive relationships.
Lifestyle vs. Genetics: While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices such as physical activity, mental stimulation, and sociability are also significant contributing factors.

What is a SuperAger?

A SuperAger is an individual over the age of 80 who maintains memory and cognitive abilities comparable to people decades younger. This concept, defined by researchers at Northwestern University's Mesulam Center, is based on objective cognitive assessments, primarily episodic memory. SuperAging is characterized by exceptional cognitive performance alongside distinct neurobiological features that differentiate these individuals from their peers experiencing normal age-related decline.

The definitive test: The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test

Identifying a SuperAger typically involves rigorous neuropsychological testing, with the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) being a key component used by researchers.

Performance: Individuals aged 80 and above must recall at least 9 out of 15 words on the delayed free recall section of the RAVLT.
Comparison: This performance level is comparable to the average score of adults aged 50-60, demonstrating remarkable memory preservation.
Other functions: Other cognitive domains, like attention and language, should remain within the average range for their age.

This specific testing protocol is crucial for the formal identification of a SuperAger in research settings.

Key biological hallmarks of the SuperAger brain

Research using neuroimaging and cellular analysis of donated SuperAger brains reveals significant differences compared to typical aging brains, suggesting mechanisms for cognitive resilience.

Distinct brain structure

Cortical thickness: Unlike the typical thinning of the cerebral cortex with age, SuperAgers show no significant thinning compared to individuals 20-30 years younger.
Brain volume: Longitudinal studies indicate a slower rate of brain volume loss in SuperAgers, approximately half the rate seen in average agers.
Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC): The ACC, vital for emotional and motivational processing, is often thicker in SuperAgers, even when compared to younger adults.

Unique cellular traits

Von Economo Neurons (VENs): SuperAger brains have a higher density of VENs, specialized neurons linked to social-emotional processing.
Entorhinal Neurons: Larger neurons are also found in the entorhinal cortex, a region critical for memory function.
Resilience and Resistance: Post-mortem studies show that some SuperAgers resist Alzheimer's pathology entirely, while others demonstrate resilience by maintaining cognitive function despite the presence of plaques and tangles.

Lifestyle and psychosocial factors

While not definitively proven as causal, researchers have noted common lifestyle and psychosocial characteristics among SuperAgers.

Social engagement

Strong social connections and positive relationships are frequently observed in SuperAgers.
They often describe their relationships as warm and supportive.
Social engagement may contribute to the maintenance of specific neural networks.

Physical activity

SuperAgers tend to be more physically active than their peers, engaging in regular exercise or active hobbies.

Mental stimulation

Many SuperAgers continue to challenge themselves mentally through activities like reading, learning, and puzzles, supporting neuroplasticity.

A comparison of SuperAgers vs. Normal Agers


Trait	SuperAger	Normal Ager
Episodic Memory	Comparable to a person 20-30 years younger.	Gradual decline is common and expected with age.
Cortical Thickness	No significant age-related thinning.	Widespread cortical thinning is typical.
Brain Shrinkage Rate	About half the annual rate of normal agers.	Annual volume loss is more significant.
Anterior Cingulate Cortex	Thicker than even some younger adults.	Typically follows normal age-related changes.
Von Economo Neurons	Higher density of these social-processing neurons.	Fewer of these specialized cells.
Social Life	Typically highly social with strong relationships.	Can vary, but strong social ties are often protective.
Alzheimer's Pathology	Some show resilience to amyloid and tau, others resistance.	More susceptible to the cognitive effects of plaques and tangles.

Can I become a SuperAger?

While genetics likely play a role, SuperAging is thought to be a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors. There is no guaranteed way to become a SuperAger, but adopting healthy habits like those seen in this group can support overall brain health as you age. Research offers insights into promoting cognitive resilience. For authoritative information on longevity and genetics, you can explore resources like research published in Nature.

Conclusion

Identifying as a SuperAger requires formal neuropsychological testing to objectively measure memory performance against specific age-based standards. While self-diagnosis isn't possible, understanding the characteristics and lifestyle factors associated with SuperAgers offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to enhance their cognitive longevity. Prioritizing mental and physical activity, alongside maintaining strong social connections, are key actionable steps to promote brain health into advanced age.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary method is a formal neuropsychological evaluation that includes the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). A SuperAger aged 80 or older must perform as well on memory tests as a neurotypical person in their 50s or 60s.

While genetics likely play a role in exceptional cognitive longevity, it is not the sole determinant. Research indicates that certain gene variants might influence SuperAging, but specific markers are still being investigated, and lifestyle factors are also crucial.

No. Research on donated SuperAger brains shows two patterns: some show 'resistance' by not developing plaques and tangles, while others exhibit 'resilience' by having the markers but not showing cognitive impairment.

SuperAgers are often socially engaged, maintaining strong relationships. They are typically physically active and less sedentary than their peers. They also tend to challenge their minds through continued learning and mental stimulation.

It is unlikely that lifestyle changes can guarantee becoming a SuperAger, as there is a likely genetic component. However, the healthy habits observed in SuperAger populations are associated with better overall brain health and can help anyone improve their cognitive resilience.

Focus on adopting the key habits observed in SuperAgers: stay physically and mentally active, maintain strong social connections, and cultivate resilience. While not a guarantee, these are proven strategies for promoting overall brain health.

Interestingly, no. While some SuperAgers follow very healthy habits, research from Northwestern's study found a wide variety of lifestyles, including some who indulged in occasional smoking or drinking. This suggests that other factors are more predictive of their exceptional cognitive state.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.