Logopedics, Vol. 6 No. 2, 2016.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.31299/log.6.2.2
Changes in cognitive functions in adulthood
Paulina Zadro
; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Edukacijsko-rehabilitacijski fakultet, Odsjek za logopediju, studentica
Sanja Šimleša
; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Edukacijsko-rehabilitacijski fakultet, Odsjek za logopediju
Marina Olujić
; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Edukacijsko-rehabilitacijski fakultet, Odsjek za logopediju
Jelena Kuvač Kraljević
; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Edukacijsko-rehabilitacijski fakultet, Odsjek za logopediju
Abstract
With increased age, there is a decline in many cognitive functions such as attention and long-term memory. Executive functions are usually the first to deteriorate. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the changes in executive functions that occur with age. Participants in this study were adults without disabilities divided into two groups. The first group consisted of younger adults (N=15) and the second group of middle-aged and elderly adults (N=11). Verbal working memory was assessed with the Memory for Digit Span subtest of the WAIS-III test, while spatial working memory, planning, cognitive flexibility and response inhibition were assessed with the CANTAB Battery Tests. The results demonstrated that older adults achieve significantly lower results on the working memory variables. Group differences were not significant for other executive functions: planning, cognitive flexibility and inhibition. While other studies consistently demonstrate a decline in planning function during the aging process, this study found no differences. Because some executive function decline can be observed even in middle-aged adults, this study emphasizes the importance of further research on executive functions, particularly among middle-aged adults.
Keywords
executive functions; adulthood; aging
Hrčak ID:
172062
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2016.
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