Working memory across the lifespan: A cross-sectional approach

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2013

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to extend previous lifespan research to a wide age range (5 to 80 year olds) and investigate any potential differences in the development and decline of working memory functions. To that end, measures of both verbal and visuo-spatial working memory were included in a cross-sectional study. The findings indicated that there is considerable growth in childhood-on average 23 standard points; with performance peaking in 30-year olds. There was relatively little change in working memory performance in older adults, with 70 to 80 year olds performing at comparable levels to teenagers (13-19 year olds) in verbal working memory tests. Confirmatory factor analyses suggest that working memory skills across the lifespan are driven by domain differences (i.e., verbal or visuo-spatial stimuli), rather than functional differences (maintenance and manipulation of information). © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

Publication Title

Journal of Cognitive Psychology

Volume

25

Issue

1

First Page

84

Last Page

93

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1080/20445911.2012.748027

ISSN

20445911

E-ISSN

2044592X

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