Focused Regimens Keep Aging Mind Sharp, Says New Publication

[15 June 2007 - Gerontological Society of America - Press Release] Treatments to keep the brain healthy can be just as effective as exercise is for the body, according to the latest special issue of The Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences. The volume, titled "Cognitive Interventions and Aging," features research devoted to methods for preserving mental function - from training routines and medication to more modern approaches such as civic engagement and the use of technology. The publication was guest edited by Richard Schulz, PhD of Florida State University. Ten articles are presented in total:

• "Developing Context and Background Underlying Cognitive Intervention/Training Studies in Older Populations"
• "Should One Use Medications in Combination With Cognitive Training? If So, Which Ones?"
• "The Impact of Speed of Processing Training on Cognitive and Everyday Functions"
• "The Neural Correlates of an Expanded Functional Field of View"
• "Improving Cognitive Function in Older Adults: Nontraditional Approaches"
• "Training and Maintaining Memory Abilities in Healthy Older Adults: Traditional and Novel Approaches"
• "An Engagement Model of Cognitive Optimization Through Adulthood"
• "Do Self-Monitoring Interventions Improve Older Adult Learning?"
• "Training Older Adults To Use New Technology"
• "A Multilevel Modeling Approach to Examining Individual Differences in Skill Acquisition for a Computer-Based Task"
  

Advances in imaging technology, electrophysiology, biomarker assay, genetics, statistical analyses, and data sharing are moving the field of cognitive research forward at an accelerating rate. The growing prominence of ailments such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases has spurred a greater interest in cognitive interventions among the American public. This special issue was developed as the result of a symposium on cognitive training for older adults sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. More