Amplitude modulations and inter-trial phase stability of alpha-oscillations differentially reflect working memory constraints across the lifespan

► Lifespan differences in EEG alpha rhythms were studied in a change-detection task. ► Lateralized power increase with load in young adults, indicating inhibition processes. ► Reduced power-lateralization in older adults and children for high load conditions. ► Enhanced early phase-stability of alpha oscillations in older adults. ► Alpha power and phase contribute differentially to age differences in WM performance.