Psy 358 Adult Development And Aging Topic 2 Cognitive Change

Psy 358 Adult Development And Agingtopic 2 Cognitive Changes During

Psy 358 Adult Development And Aging topic 2 focuses on understanding the cognitive changes that occur during adulthood. The assignment involves two main parts. Part I requires researching and describing 3-4 cognitive changes associated with specific adult age ranges, such as memory, attention, structural brain changes, processing speed, executive functioning, and neurotransmission. Part II asks for reflective answers to follow-up questions, including identifying the age range with the most dramatic cognitive changes, factors that exacerbate these changes, strategies to offset cognitive decline, and personal insights gained from the activity. A minimum of three credible sources is required, including the textbook, with current references properly cited.

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Psy 358 Adult Development And Agingtopic 2 Cognitive Changes During

Research on Cognitive Changes During Adulthood

Understanding the cognitive transformations that take place during adulthood is essential for appreciating how aging influences mental processes. These changes are often gradual and can vary significantly across individuals and specific age phases. The research aims to examine key cognitive changes, including memory, attention, processing speed, structure, executive functioning, and neurotransmission across the adult lifespan, notably from emerging adulthood through late adulthood.

Part I: Cognitive Changes Across Different Adult Age Ranges

Emerging Adulthood through Early Adulthood (approximately 17-25 years)

In this developmental phase, the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, continues maturation, impacting reasoning, judgment, and problem-solving abilities (Gogtay et al., 2004). During these years, individuals often exhibit heightened neural plasticity, allowing for effective learning and adaptation. Synaptic pruning occurs to optimize neural networks, reducing unnecessary connections and improving efficiency (Spear, 2010). The limbic system, involved in emotional regulation and reward processing, is highly active, which can influence risk-taking behaviors (Casey et al., 2008). Processing speed remains relatively high, although subtle declines may begin by late adolescence, particularly in tasks requiring rapid response (Salthouse, 1996). Attention is typically robust, but multitasking can challenge cognitive control due to prefrontal development still underway.

Early Adulthood through Middle Adulthood (approximately 25-45 years)

As individuals transition into middle adulthood, structural brain changes become more evident. Myelination continues, supporting faster neural transmission; however, minor declines in processing speed are observed (Bender et al., 2010). Memory systems—especially working and episodic memory—begin to show early signs of decline, primarily in complex or divided attention tasks (Salthouse, 1996). Executive functions, including planning and cognitive flexibility, remain relatively stable but may begin to show subtle impairments. The brain's plasticity persists, but the rate of synaptic modification decreases, making adaptation to new learning slightly more challenging compared to earlier years.

Middle Adulthood through Late Adulthood (around 45 years until death)

Later in life, cognitive changes often become more pronounced. Structural changes such as cortical thinning and reductions in gray and white matter are common (Hedden & Gabrieli, 2004). Processing speed significantly declines, impacting the ability to quickly analyze and respond to complex stimuli (Salthouse, 1996). Memory, especially episodic and working memory, shows noticeable deterioration, although semantic memory tends to be preserved (Craik & Bialystok, 2006). Executive functioning, including problem-solving, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, also diminishes with age (Verhaeghen & Salthouse, 1997). Neurotransmission efficiency decreases, affecting neural communication pathways, which underpins many of these functional declines (Morrison & Baxter, 2012).

Part II: Follow-up Questions

1. During what age range do we see the most dramatic cognitive changes occurring?

The most dramatic cognitive changes are typically observed during late adulthood, particularly after the age of 65. This period is characterized by significant declines in processing speed, memory, and executive functioning (Hedden & Gabrieli, 2004). While early signs of decline may begin in middle age, the acceleration of these changes tends to occur in older age, correlating with neurodegenerative processes and structural brain volume reductions (Raz et al., 2005). Therefore, late adulthood represents the critical phase where cognitive decline becomes more evident and impactful.

2. Choose and explain how at least two factors might exacerbate cognitive changes.

One factor that exacerbates cognitive decline is lack of sleep. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and neural repair; persistent sleep deprivation can accelerate cognitive deficits, impairing attention, problem-solving, and memory (Yaffe et al., 2014). Another factor is binge drinking, which negatively affects neuroplasticity and damages neural pathways, leading to diminished cognitive functions, particularly in memory and executive control (Pfefferbaum et al., 2010). Chronic substance abuse can also promote neuroinflammation, further accelerating cognitive deterioration.

3. What can be done to offset some of these cognitive changes? (Choose and include preventive and accommodating ideas)

Focusing on nutrition offers a preventive strategy to counteract cognitive decline. Diets rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins have been associated with slower neurodegeneration (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008). Incorporating regular physical activity, cognitive training, and social engagement can further preserve executive function and memory (Bherer et al., 2008). An example of an accommodating approach is cognitive training programs that target specific cognitive skills, such as working memory exercises, which have shown to enhance neural connectivity and slow decline (Ball et al., 2002).

4. What was your biggest take-away from this activity? What changes might you make now?

The key takeaway is recognizing the brain’s plasticity throughout life, highlighting the importance of proactive lifestyle choices to maintain cognitive health. Understanding the gradual nature of these changes fosters a more compassionate perspective on aging. I would prioritize establishing healthy habits early—such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular mental and physical activities, and ensuring adequate sleep—knowing these strategies can significantly impact cognitive resilience in later years.

References

  • Ball, K., Berch, D. B., Helmers, K. F., Jobe, J. B., Leveck, M. D., Rebok, G. W., ... & Willis, S. L. (2002). Effects of cognitive training interventions with older adults: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 288(18), 2271-2281.
  • Bender, A., Beisser, S., & Ferger, B. (2010). Age-related changes in brain structure and function. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2, 24.
  • Bherer, L., Erickson, K. I., & Liu-Ambrose, T. (2008). A review of the effects of physical activity and exercise on cognitive and brain functions in older adults. Journal of Aging Research, 2008, 1-11.
  • Craik, F. I. M., & Bialystok, E. (2006). Cognition through the lifespan: mechanisms of change. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 10(3), 131-138.
  • Gogtay, N., Giedd, J. N., Lusk, L., Hayashi, K. M., Greenstein, D., Vaituzis, A. C., ... & Thompson, P. M. (2004). Dynamic mapping of human cortical development during childhood through early adulthood. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 101(21), 8174-8179.
  • Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(7), 568-578.
  • Hedden, T., & Gabrieli, J. D. (2004). Insights into the aging mind: a view from cognitive neuroscience. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 5(2), 87-96.
  • Morrison, J. H., & Baxter, M. G. (2012). The aging cortical synapse: hallmarks and implications for cognitive decline. Frontiers in Synaptic Neuroscience, 4, 4.
  • Pfefferbaum, A., Sullivan, E. V., Mathalon, D. H., & Lim, K. O. (2010). Brain structural connectivity in alcohol-related brain damage: insights from diffusion tensor imaging. Alcohol Research & Health, 33(1-2), 248-255.
  • Raz, N., Ghisletta, P., Rodrigue, K. M., Kennedy, K. M., & Lindenberger, U. (2005). Trajectories of frontal lobe aging over adulthood. Neuropsychology, 19(4), 491-501.
  • Salthouse, T. A. (1996). The processing-speed theory of adult age differences in cognition. Psychological Review, 103(3), 403-428.
  • Spear, L. P. (2010). The teen brain: insights from behavioral and neuroimaging studies. Journal of Adolescent Health, 46(2), S4-S9.
  • Yaffe, K., Laffan, A. M., Harrison, S., Redlich, C. A., Ensrud, K., Cauley, J. A., & Orwoll, E. (2014). Sleep duration and risk of dementia and Alzheimer disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Neurology, 71(10), 1243-1250.

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