Verbal memory/semantic memory, also long-term memory

[claireirel]

Are verbal and semantic memory the same thing? It would seem so, but I have to be sure!

I'm writing an essay on foreign language learning and psycholinguistics versus age. I read that verbal and long-term memory are the most important cognitive abilities when it comes to language learning. However, I'm struggling to find info on a time of life when these abilities would peak. Any suggestions?

All help is very welcome!