Learning Facebook may keep seniors sharp

03/2013

Preliminary findings from a small study show that older adults (68-91), after learning to use Facebook, performed about 25% better on tasks designed to measure their ability to continuously monitor and to quickly add or delete the contents of their working memory (updating), compared to their baseline performance. Two other groups of 14 showed no change. The second group of 14 were taught to use a private online diary site (Penzu.com), while the third control group were told they were on a wait-list for Facebook training.

Wohltmann, Janelle. 2013. Presented at the International Neuropsychological Society’s annual meeting in Hawaii.

Report on Futurity

seniors

working memory

aging

Related News

Nicotine patch shows benefits in mild cognitive impairment

The study involved 74 non-smokers with amnestic

Higher risk of mild cognitive impairment among older men

More data from the long-running Mayo Clinic Study of Aging has revealed that, in this one part of the U.S.

'Exergames' may provide greater cognitive benefit for older adults

We know that physical exercise greatly helps you prevent cognitive decline with aging. We know that mental stimulation also helps you prevent age-related cognitive decline. So it was only a matter of time before someone came up with a way of combining the two.

Cognitive decline begins in middle age

The age at which cognitive decline begins has been the subject of much debate. The Seattle longitudinal study has provided most of the evidence that it doesn’t begin until age 60.

Diet linked to brain atrophy in old age

The study involved 104 healthy older adults (average age 87) participating in the Oregon Brain Aging Study.

Physical evidence bilingualism delays onset of Alzheimer's symptoms

Growing evidence points to greater education and mentally stimulating occupations and activities providing a

Brain atrophy may predict risk for early Alzheimer's disease

A study involving 159 older adults (average age 76) has confirmed that the amount of brain tissue in specific regions is a predictor of Alzheimer’s disease development.

Reviving a failing sense of smell through training

The olfactory bulb is in the oldest part of our brain. It connects directly to the

Why diabetes is linked to cognitive impairment in older adults

Why is diabetes associated with cognitive impairment and even dementia in older adults? New research pinpoints two molecules that trigger a cascade of events that end in poor blood flow and brain atrophy.

For the brain, iron levels may need to be just right

Iron deficiency is the world's single most common nutrient deficiency, and a well-known cause of impaired cognitive, language, and motor development. Many countries therefore routinely supplement infant foods with iron.

Pages