Final answer:
Age is mostly associated with declines in short-term memory due to factors like memory trace decay and proactive interference, though long-term memory remains more resilient and mental and physical activities can mitigate decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the statement 'Age is directly associated with declines in short-term memory,' research indicates that it could be considered mostly true, but the relationship is nuanced. Memory trace decay and interference, such as proactive interference, have been shown to affect short-term memory retention. Studies like that of Peterson and Peterson (1959) and Keppel and Underwood (1962) have shown that this retention declines with time and can be affected by prior knowledge.
However, we must be careful to note that this is not the only factor involved in memory, as long-term memory tends to be more resilient and its storage capacity is believed to be unlimited. Meanwhile, cognitive abilities in adults, including memory and intelligence, remain steady through early and middle adulthood, with declines generally starting in late adulthood, particularly in fluid intelligence versus crystallized intelligence. Mental and physical activity have been shown to help delay the onset of cognitive decline.