• Peak alpha frequency (PAF) is defined as the discrete frequency with the highest
magnitude within the alpha range, and is measured in Hz.
• PAF decreases with increasing age, and has been shown to reflect performance in various
cognitive functions, including attention, arousal, working memory, long term memory and
reading.
• In general, a decrease in PAF frequency indicates deterioration in cognitive performance.
Indeed, subjects with mild-to-moderate AD have significantly lower PAF than matched
controls.
• Other patient populations with possibly abnormal PAF are those with TBI, Lewy Body
dementia and major depression.
