A critical review of research on cognitive function/impairment in older adults

Research on aspects of cognitive function and impairment in older adults is critically reviewed with the aim of evaluation and synthesis. The body of research on cognitive aging, mostly atheoretical, has not been placed within the larger context of cognitive sciences. Methodological concerns and lack of a unifying framework inhibit integration of previous studies and the development of a cohesive body of knowledge. Therefore, one paradigm of adult cognition, information processing, is recommended to further advance nursing theory and research.