Cognitive Development in Late Adulthood
Researchers have discovered that IQ’s, as measured by IQ tests, remains fairly stable throughout the adult years, although there is a sometimes a small decline beginning after age 60. Studies indicate that memory for prose, television shows, conversations, personal plans, and past activities declines some in late adulthood. However, the memory declines associated with aging are not universal and are moderate in size.
Studies suggest that some personality traits (i.e. emotional stability, assertiveness, and extraversion) tend to remain stable, while others (i.e. masculinity and femininity) tend to change as people grow older. Individual differences in cognitive functioning are larger in late adulthood compared to any other stage of life. Psychologists are conducting new studies that show that people in their later years have far more physical and mental strength than imagined. They are proving that memory loss can be reversed by personal strategies such as daily memory checks and regular mental exercises.
In a study by Schooler and Mesfin, the researchers provide strong evidence that complex leisure time activities increase intellectual functioning. This study indicates that, even in old age, carrying out complex tasks has a positive effect on intellectual processes (2001).
These
important advances in research ensure that with proper knowledge of treatments
and preventative measures, the elderly population does not necessarily have to
experience mental and cognitive decline with old age.