[Coin tossing: Development of a computerized test to assess cognitive flexibility in older adults]

The aging population is increasing. Aging has been associated with some degree of cognitive decline, especially in functions such as cognitive flexibility. The voluntary task-switching paradigm is a novel model for studying this function. The aim of this work was to design and test a computerized instrument to assess cognitive flexibility with this paradigm.

A non-probabilistic and intentional sample of individuals aged 60 and above (N=57; M=70; SD=7.5), 72% of whom were women, was utilized. A general cognitive screening test (ACE III) and the "Coin Tossing" task, a computerized program consisting of four levels of complexity, were administered.

A Wilcoxon test was used to contrast parity versus size responses (z(56)=-1.16, P=.24). To assess repetition bias, a Wilcoxon test was conducted between new and repeated responses (TR: z(56)=-1.81, P=.07 // Accuracy: z(56)=-6.33, P=.00). A repeated measures ANOVA was performed between reaction times before, during, and after a response change, F(1.02)=59.6, P<.01, η2=.937, B-1=1. And a repeated measures ANOVA between mean RTs per level, F(3)=7.92, P<.001, η2=.128, B-1=.98.

The test was designed with a progressive structure across levels. The theoretical assumptions of the paradigm were partially demonstrated, showing its utility for the assessment and training of cognitive flexibility.