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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

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Published on: February 14, 2014
Modifiability of figural relations performance among elderly adults
J A Blackburn1, D Papalia-Finlay, B F Foye
1School of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Cognitive training for seniors showed that self-taught strategies for figural relations problems were more effective long-term than formal instruction. This improves cognitive performance and transfer in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive psychology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cognitive decline is a concern in aging.
- Targeted training may enhance cognitive abilities in older adults.
- Figural relations training is a potential intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of two figural relations training strategies.
- To assess cognitive performance improvements in healthy elderly individuals.
- To evaluate the durability of training effects over time.
Main Methods:
- 69 healthy older adults (62-92 years) were randomized into three groups: control, formal instruction, or self-instructed interactive training.
- Participants completed pretest and posttest cognitive batteries assessing various abilities.
- Training focused on figural relations problem-solving strategies.
Main Results:
- Both training groups significantly outperformed the control group on cognitive tasks at posttest.
- Self-generated strategies demonstrated more durable effects on near and far transfer tasks compared to rule-based training.
- Cognitive performance improvements were observed in trained elderly individuals.
Conclusions:
- Self-instructed figural relations training is a durable and effective method for enhancing cognitive performance in older adults.
- Cognitive training strategies can lead to significant improvements and transfer of skills in the elderly.
- Interventions focusing on self-generated strategies may offer lasting cognitive benefits for aging populations.
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