A new report in Neuropsychology (published by the APA) suggests that the more years of education one has, the less one's memory will decline with age. [Full text of the study is available from the APA Public Affairs Office and at apa.org/journals/releases/neu192181.pdf or click the header to read an article summarizing the study.]
In a study comparing younger adults (aged 18-30 with 11-20 years of education) against older adults (65 and up with 8-21 years of education) in a memory function test, it was found that younger adult brains used the temporal lobes, while older adult brains relied more on the frontal lobes to perform the task.
This is significant in that the frontal lobes are associated with higher brain functions. The authors of the study speculate that older adults are forced to use the frontal cortex as a result of decreased access to the temporal lobes, but they did not offer a control group of less educated older adults for comparison.
I would suggest that older adults use the frontal cortex more than younger adults as a direct result of being older and not simply as a result of education. The frontal cortex is the last area of the brain to mature in adults and is thought to reach maturity in the early to mid 20's. Younger adults may not have full access to the frontal cortex. The study doesn't provide control groups, so this is just speculation.
The take-home message here is that keeping the brain active throughout life is the best way to prevent or delay mental decline from aging. Many studies have shown this to be true. Part of an integral approach to optimal health is ongoing education in whatever areas drive your interest. A sound body needs a sound mind, as well as a sound heart and a vibrant soul.
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