The age-related decline in memory performance is a well-known phenomenon that has been confirmed in numerous studies, but new findings on individual differences in cognitive ageing now show that the personality trait openness to experience has a positive link to memory performance in older people. Openness to experience refers to the personality trait of being imaginative, curious and open to new things, with people high in this trait enjoying diverse cultural experiences, trying new things, being imaginative and showing an interest in artistic and intellectually challenging topics. Studies confirm that while older people have lower memory performance compared to young adults, older adults with a higher openness to experience have higher brain activation. These findings can be used to promote healthy ageing from a mental perspective, and these mechanisms can be used to individually promote cognitive vitality in old age.