Six Factors to Trigger Cognitive Development Across the Lifespan: a New Theoretical Framework
Year: 2017
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: We present a novel theoretical life course framework (CALLA – Cognitive Agility across the Lifespan via Learning and Attention) that uses research from cognitive development (with infants and children) to inform cognitive aging. This framework posits that an increase in cognitive abilities (e.g., memory, attention, inhibition) during infancy and childhood is partially an outcome of a specific type of learning approach, which may be triggered by 6 critical factors (e.g., open-minded learning, scaffolding, growth mindset). Our framework suggests that one cause of healthy age-related cognitive decline (besides known causes, such as neurodegeneration) may be a decrease in these 6 factors. We hypothesize that these factors remain important throughout adulthood and can mitigate age-related cognitive decline in healthy adults. Our framework differs from current dominant frameworks that argue that cognitive abilities are separate “modules” that can be isolated and trained. Infant and child development research suggests that an outcome of acquiring new skills and knowledge is the development of cognitive abilities. Future studies will determine whether this is also the case in aging adulthood. This framework pushes the limits of current estimates of neuroplasticity and cognitive functioning in aging adults. By providing learners with maximally supportive environments we can expand cognitive performance beyond currently known limits.
Source: Innovation in Aging
Language: English
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,977
OpenAlex ID: W2730436750