Predicting age-related dual-task effects with individual differences on neuropsychological tests.
This study examined the relation of dual-task performance to individual differences on neuropsychological tests. Neuropsychological test scores from 16 young and 16 older participants were simultaneously submitted to a factor analysis that yielded 2 factors (Attention/Executive and Memory) that differed by age and 2 (Motor Speed and Cognitive Status) that did not. Regression analyses revealed that these factors were significant predictors of performance on a delayed visual recognition task, but the relationship varied as a function of task condition. The Memory and Motor Speed factors were the strongest predictors of single-task performance, but the Attention/Executive factor was the most important predictor of dual-task performance. The authors conclude that compromised central executive may underlie age-related decline in dual-task performance.
Holtzer
Roee
R
Cognitive Neuroscience Division of the Taub Institute, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
Stern
Yaakov
Y
Rakitin
Brian C
BC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D004192:Discrimination, Psychological / Q000502:physiology*; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011340:Problem Solving / Q000502:physiology; D011930:Reaction Time; D012044:Regression Analysis; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis