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Effects of processing speed training on cognitive functions and neural systems
Hikaru Takeuchi1, Ryuta Kawashima
1Smart Ageing International Research Cente, Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan. takehi@idac.tohoku.ac.jp
Reviews in the Neurosciences
|July 4, 2012
Summary
Processing speed (PS) training enhances performance on untrained tasks, with varied transfer depending on methods. Speed training also impacts mental health in older adults and neural mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Processing speed (PS) is a crucial cognitive ability, vital for executing tasks and important psychologically and clinically.
- PS is considered a key component alongside working memory.
- Training interventions targeting PS can influence performance on other cognitive measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on processing speed training and speeded tasks.
- To describe methodologies, psychological, and neuroimaging findings related to PS training.
- To explore the potential of adaptive training procedures for cognitive enhancement.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies involving processing speed training or speeded tasks.
- Analysis of psychological and neuroimaging data from training studies.
- Examination of adaptive procedures for modulating task difficulty.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests PS training improves performance on untrained speeded tasks.
- The degree of transfer varies based on the specific training methodology employed.
- Certain speed training approaches show positive effects on mental health in older adults.
- Neuroimaging reveals that training effects on neural mechanisms differ based on task type.
Conclusions:
- Processing speed training can enhance cognitive performance, but transfer effects are method-dependent.
- Speed training holds potential for improving mental health in older populations.
- Adaptive training protocols could be developed to boost various cognitive functions.
- Understanding neural mechanisms is key to optimizing speed training outcomes.
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