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How Does Aging Impact Attention Span? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

As we get older, changes in focus and memory can become more noticeable. The link between aging and attention span is part of a broader shift in how the brain processes information, prioritises tasks, and maintains mental stamina. While it’s normal to experience some cognitive slowing, not all lapses are cause for concern. 

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What Happens to Focus as We Age? 

With age, brain structures involved in concentration and memory like the prefrontal cortex can shrink slightly, leading to subtle declines in attention. This doesn’t mean older adults can’t focus, but senior focus decline might look like: 

More frequent distractions:  

It may take longer to refocus after an interruption. 

Slower processing:  

Information might be absorbed and recalled at a slower pace. 

Increased fatigue:  

Mental tasks can feel more tiring, reducing sustained focus over time. 

These changes are part of cognitive aging, a natural process influenced by lifestyle, health conditions, and genetics. However, staying mentally and physically active, getting enough sleep, and managing chronic conditions can help preserve concentration. 

If attention changes are sudden or severely impact daily functioning, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying causes like depression, medication side effects, or neurodegenerative conditions. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD difficulty concentrating.  

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Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.