Final answer:
Semantic memory is the cognitive ability that is maintained as we age, unlike working memory, processing speed, and inhibitory control, which all tend to decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the cognitive abilities or processes mentioned, semantic memory is generally maintained as we age. While other cognitive abilities such as working memory, processing speed, and inhibitory control tend to decline with age, our accumulated knowledge and understanding of language and concepts, encapsulated within our semantic memory, often remain stable or can even improve. This is due to crystallized intelligence, which is based on the knowledge and skills we acquire over a lifetime. This ability is important for tasks that require holding information in mind and using it to guide behavior or make decisions. For example, remembering and following multi-step instructions, or keeping track of a conversation.