# Citation Syanah Wynn, Erika Nyhus, Ole Jensen (2022). Alpha modulation in younger and older adults during distracted encoding [Data set]. https://doi.org/10.34973/5xbh-zd57. # Abstract To successfully encode information into long-term memory, we need top-down control to focus our attention on target stimuli. This attentional focus is achieved by the modulation of sensory neuronal excitability through alpha power. Failure to modulate alpha power and to inhibit distracting information has been reported in older adults during attention and working memory tasks. Given that alpha power during encoding can predict subsequent memory performance, aberrant oscillatory modulations might play a role in age-related memory deficits. However, it is unknown whether there are age-related differences in memory performance or alpha modulation when encoding targets with distraction. Here we show that both older and younger adults are able to encode targets paired with distractors and that the level of alpha power modulation during encoding predicted recognition success. Even though older adults showed signs of higher distractibility, this did not harm their episodic memory for target information. Also, we demonstrate that older adults only modulated alpha power during high distraction, both by enhancing target processing and inhibiting distractor processing. These results indicate that both younger and older adults are able to employ the same inhibitory control mechanisms successfully, but that older adults fail to call upon these when distraction is minimal. The findings of this study give us more insight into the mechanisms involved in memory encoding across the lifespan. # Background information You can find more information, including relevant publications pertaining to this dataset on the collection overview page at https://doi.org/10.34973/5xbh-zd57. A complete list of files that are part of this dataset can be found in the file MANIFEST.txt, including a SHA256 hash for each file to allow verification of correct data transfer. # Restrictions on data access and reuse The access to and use of this dataset is only allowed under the conditions listed in the data use agreement, as detailed in the file LICENSE.txt. Neither the Donders Institute or Radboud University, nor the researchers that provide this dataset should be included as an author of publications or presentations if this authorship would be based solely on the use of this data. However, we ask you to acknowledge the use of the data and data derived from the data when publicly presenting any results or algorithms that benefitted from their use: 1) Papers, book chapters, books, posters, oral presentations, and all other presentations of results derived from the data should acknowledge the origin of the data as follows: "Data were provided (in part) by the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen". 2) Authors of publications or presentations using the data should cite relevant publications describing the methods developed and used by the Donders Institute to acquire and process the data. The specific publications that are appropriate to cite in any given study will depend on what the data were used for and for what purposes. When applicable, a list of publications will be specified on the collection overview page.