Denise C. Park|Jennifer Lodi?Smith|Linda M. Drew|Sara Haber|Andrew Hebrank|Gérard N. Bischof|Whitley W. Aamodt
The Impact of Sustained Engagement on Cognitive Function in Older Adults
The University of Texas at Dallas|Canisius College|The University of Texas at Dallas
research reported tested hypothesis sustained engagement learning new skills activated working memory episodic memory reasoning period 3 months would enhance cognitive function older adults three conditions high cognitive demands participants learned quilt learned digital photography engaged activities average 1651 hr week 3 months results posttest indicated episodic memory enhanced productiveengagement conditions relative receptiveengagement conditions participants either engaged nonintellectual activities social group performed lowdemand cognitive tasks social contact findings suggest sustained engagement cognitively demanding novel activities enhances memory function older adulthood somewhat surprisingly found limited cognitive benefits sustained engagement social activities