Lanzando la moneda. Desarrollo de una prueba informática para evaluar la flexibilidad cognitiva en las personas mayores

Background

The aging population is increasing. Aging has been associated with some degree of cognitive decline, especially in functions such as cognitive flexibility. The voluntary task-switching paradigm is a novel model for studying this function. The aim of this work was to design and test a computerized instrument to assess cognitive flexibility with this paradigm.

Methods

A non-probabilistic and intentional sample of individuals aged 60 and above (N = 57; M = 70; SD = 7.5), 72% of whom were women, was utilized. A general cognitive screening test (ACE III) and the “Coin Tossing” task, a computerized program consisting of four levels of complexity, were administered.

Results

A Wilcoxon test was used to contrast parity versus size responses (z(56) = −1.16, P=.24). To assess repetition bias, a Wilcoxon test was conducted between new and repeated responses (TR: z(56) = −1.81, P=.07 // Accuracy: z(56) = −6.33, P=.00). A repeated measures ANOVA was performed between reaction times before, during, and after a response change, F(1.02) = 59.6, P<.01, η2 = .937, B-1 = 1. And a repeated measures ANOVA between mean RTs per level, F(3) = 7.92, P<.001, η2 = .128, B-1 = .98.

Conclusions

The test was designed with a progressive structure across levels. The theoretical assumptions of the paradigm were partially demonstrated, showing its utility for the assessment and training of cognitive flexibility.