PSY313H5 Chapter 9: Chapter 9 Notes
Document Summary
Cognitive decline is an inecitable aspect of aging. No measures of intellectual functioning, learning, or memory exist for which older adults reliably outperform younger adults. In everyday decision-making and problem-solving situations, however, older adults usually shows no declines in proficiency. Furthermore, some odler adults show wisdom and expertise. Many facets of development are co-determined through interactions between biogenetic and cultural factors. The attributes and meanings of the term cognition reflect cultural expectations about the nature of life-span development. Attributes of being bright and a fast learner are much more likely to be used in reference to the actions (or inactions) of adolescents and young adults than to the actions of middle-aged and older adults. Conversely, the attributes of being effective, sensitive, and wise are more likely to be used in reference to the actions of middle-aged or older adults than in reference to the actions of younger adults.
