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Updated: Jan 3, 2026
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Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
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Is Cognitive Training Worth It? Exploring Individuals' Willingness to Engage in Cognitive Training
Erin R Harrell1, Brandon Kmetz1, Walter R Boot1
1Department of Psychology, Florida State University.
Summary
Older adults are willing to dedicate significant time to cognitive training for sustained functional independence. Belief in training efficacy strongly predicts this willingness, impacting future treatment adherence.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cognitive decline is a major concern for older adults, impacting functional independence.
- Game-based cognitive training is a potential intervention, but its adoption depends on user willingness to engage.
- Understanding the time commitment individuals are willing to make is crucial for intervention success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the amount of time individuals are willing to spend on game-based cognitive training to achieve prolonged functional independence.
- To identify predictors of willingness to invest time in cognitive training among older adults.
Main Methods:
- Study 1: Survey with slider response (0-100 minutes) assessing willingness to train for extended independence (N=294).
- Study 1: Assessed self-perceived health, cognitive functioning, personality, and demographics.
- Study 2: Open-ended responses to assess willingness to train for extended independence in older adults (N=120).
Main Results:
- Participants in Study 1 were willing to dedicate an average of 11 minutes daily to cognitive training.
- Belief in cognitive training efficacy, openness to experience, and self-perceived cognitive deficit predicted willingness to train.
- Study 2 participants reported willingness to invest substantially more time, with higher time commitments for greater independence gains.
Conclusions:
- Older adults are prepared to invest considerable time in cognitive training to maintain functional independence.
- Perceived efficacy of cognitive training is a primary driver of willingness to engage.
- Findings have implications for predicting the uptake and adherence to cognitive interventions for age-related cognitive decline.
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