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Chapter 9: Problem 7

Summarize the effects of aging on cognitive functioning, and identify the factors which may affect it. Although some intellectual abilities gradually decline throughout adulthood, starting at around age \(25,\) others stay relatively steady. For example, research shows that although fluid intelligence declines with age, crystallized intelligence remains steady, and may even improve, in late adulthood. There is no uniform pattern of age-related intellectual changes. Factors that may affect cognitive functioning include environmental and cultural factors.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Aging impacts cognitive functioning differently depending on the type of intelligence. While fluid intelligence generally declines from around age 25, crystallized intelligence often remains steady or improves throughout adulthood. Factors like environment, physical and mental health, lifestyle, and culture can influence cognitive functioning throughout aging.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the basics

Research the basics of cognitive functioning and aging, focusing on the two types of intelligence usually mentioned in this context, namely fluid and crystallized intelligence. Fluid intelligence refers to abilities to reason, identify patterns, solve problems, and understand complex information. Crystallized intelligence refers to accumulated knowledge, including vocabulary and facts, and it draws upon our stored information and experiences.
02

Describe the effects of aging on cognitive functioning

Generally, fluid intelligence starts to decline around age 25, while crystallized intelligence often remains steady or even improves throughout adulthood. There is no uniform pattern of age-related cognitive changes; the decline is not severe for most people until very old age, and even then, many cognitive functions are preserved.
03

Identify the contributing factors

There are several factors that might impact cognitive functioning in aging, such as environmental factors, physical health, mental health, lifestyle, and cultural factors. An active lifestyle filled with mental, physical, and social activities can help maintain cognitive functioning in later life.

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