Previous research documented positive associations between cognitively stimulating work and levels of cognitive performance, while longitudinal associations are less clear. We used 20-year longitudinal data from the Interdisciplinary Longitudinal Study of Adult Development and Aging (ILSE) to examine the role of perceived work environment…

Intraindividual variability (IIV) in cognitive speed, or moment-to-moment changes in ability, is a developmental phenomenon indicative of neurological integrity that increases gradually across adulthood. Past research has shown that IIV negatively covaries with cognitive performance, in which higher IIV at one occasion is associated with poorer…

In light of population aging, an understanding of factors that promote lifelong cognitive resilience is urgent. There is considerable evidence that education early in the life span, which promotes the development of literacy skills, leads to cognitive health and longevity, but the ways in which activity engagement in later adulthood affects…

Assessed adults (N=88) on tasks operationally defining short-term memory structural limitations and process abilities. Although a number of minor chronological age-related differences were noted between monaural and dichotic word list performances, the findings indicated both structural capacity and organizational strategy deficiencies over…

A review of research shows that while some studies support (1) the necessity of developing logical (operational) thought, (2) the maintenance of this cognitive level, and (3) the finality of the formal operational stage, the bulk of research challenges these three aspects of traditional Piagetian theory. (LRA)

A developmental theory of adult intelligence is proposed called PPIK. The PPIK theory integrates intelligence as process, personality, interests, and intelligence-as-knowledge. Data from the study of knowledge structures are examined in the context of the theory and in relation to measures of content abilities. (SLD)

Describes conceptualization of compensation that applies to life span cognitive development, in general, and aging of prose processing skills, in particular. Presents model of forms and processes of compensation that directs attention to developing dynamics of cognitive skills and compensatory mechanisms. Outlines three main approaches to research…

This study examined the performance of middle aged and elderly adults on the Piagetian tests of class inclusion and multiple classification. (GO)

Considered the applicability of problem-solving concepts such as planfulness and depth of search to older adult cognitive behavior. Older adults (N=36) solved isomorphic inquiry problems. Half were given planning instructions. Planning instructions reduced the number of questions prior to solution and increased the informational value of…

This book examines the important role of learning in maintaining the health, quality of life, and longevity of older adults. It includes results of the first comprehensive survey of adult learning in men and women over age 55. Chapter 1 focuses on aging, ageism, and issues raised by the graying of the population in what it calls the "Age" Age.…

Offers perspectives on the role of extrinsic factors in the aging process, the long-term consequences of extrinsically initiated changes, and implications for gerontological research. Explains the distinction between usual and successful aging in light of physiologic and psychosocial characteristics. (ML)

Responses of 241 convicts on 18 primary mental abilities were factored to explore the idea that there are organizations among visual and auditory functions that operate independently from the relation-perceiving and correlate-educing functions of fluid and crystallized intelligence. The suggested reliable common-factor functions are discussed.…

Explored the relationship among divergent thinking abilities, self-esteem, and personal characteristics of older adults (N=39). Obtained scores for fluency, flexibility and originality of thought, and self-esteem. Results indicated level of education was the best predictor of divergent thinking abilities; self-esteem and age were significantly…

While Jean Piaget's work as it relates to the development of childhood and adolescent cognition has long been explored, only recently has the usefulness of Piaget's theory in the study of adult cognition been studied. Recent research by educational psychologists has raised serious doubts about Piaget's theoretical position that the highest level…

Discusses how older people respond to art, examining mental abilities developed in advanced age which would be helpful in developing art appreciation. Considers the cultural experience of older people and its implications for how they respond to art. Explores how older people's mental abilities and cultural experience can be considered in their…