Centre for Policy on Ageing
 

 
Age differences in the strategic allocation of visual attention
Author(s)Lawrence R Gottlob, David J Madden
Journal titleThe Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, vol 54B, no 3, May 1999
Pagespp P165-172
KeywordsCognitive processes ; Mental speed ; Age groups [elderly] ; Young adults [20-25] ; Comparison ; United States of America.
AnnotationThe allocation of visual spatial attention was investigated in two groups of adults: 24 younger, mean age 19 years; and 24 older, mean age 68 years. Two sequential target displays were presented on a computer screen. If a target letter appeared in Display 1, then observers were to identify a target letter in Display 2. Based on accuracy of Display 1 target detection, the older adults had a more restricted range of visual processing than the younger adults. Based on reaction times for Display 2 target identification, older adults appeared to use a spotlight (serial) scanning mechanism, whereas younger adults appeared to use an activity-distribution (parallel) mechanism. Results are consistent with age-related cognitive slowing, but also suggest a difference in strategy according to the availability of visual information. (RH).
Accession NumberCPA-990826224 A
ClassmarkDA: DG: BB: SD6: 48: 7T

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