Memory encoding for new information, not autobiographical memory load, is linked with age-related differences in subjective time passage over the past decade

The widely replicated finding that time passage over the past decade is perceived as faster by older adults was the focus of this study. We investigated potential factors associated with this effect, examining the role of autobiographical memory and cognitive functioning. One hundred and twenty individuals aged 20-91 years were assessed on subjective time perception for the preceding decade and year, the quantity and significance of autobiographical memories from those periods, and overall cognitive status. Results confirmed the specific age-related effect concerning a faster time passage over the past decade. However, no significant association was found between perceived time passage over the past decade and either the number or subjective value of memories. Contrary to assumptions, older adults reported more vivid and meaningful recollections. Instead, reduced cognitive functioning, and specifically lower ability to form new memories as assessed through delayed memory recall, emerged as significantly linked to faster time perception with older age. Findings suggest that age-related cognitive decline leading to reduced ability to encode novel memories, rather than diminished autobiographical memory content, is a critical factor in the subjective experience of time compression in older adults.