Optimizing cognitive interventions to improve real-world function for healthy older adults

Rachel Wu (), Tania M. Rodriguez, Bethany P. Tavenner, Isadora Farias Lopes Queiroz, Walter Boot, Jeanine Parisi, Michelle Carlson, Martin Lövdén, Margaret E. Beier and Alan Gow
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Rachel Wu: University of California
Tania M. Rodriguez: University of California
Bethany P. Tavenner: University of California
Isadora Farias Lopes Queiroz: University of California
Walter Boot: Weill Cornell Medicine
Jeanine Parisi: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Michelle Carlson: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center On Aging and Health, Johns Hopkins University
Martin Lövdén: University of Gothenburg
Margaret E. Beier: Rice University
Alan Gow: Heriot-Watt University

European Journal of Ageing, 2025, vol. 22, issue 1, No 13, 9 pages

Abstract: Abstract Healthy aging requires acquiring new functional skills for adaptation in a dynamic environment. Cognitive interventions with older adults have largely focused on improving broad cognitive abilities, aiming for transfer to functional effects. By contrast, interventions focusing directly on acquiring new functional skills can address current real-world issues, including the need for reskilling and reducing the digital divide, especially for underserved communities. In doing so, we may better understand how aspects of age-related learning and cognitive and functional decline may be due to suboptimal learning circumstances rather than senescence. In this opinion paper, we highlight key aspects for designing long-lasting, real-world interventions to improve functional skills, and potentially transfer to cognitive effects, for older adults. This approach could help build more inclusive theories of cognitive aging, while progressing the field toward developing more effective and useful interventions.

Keywords: Cognitive interventions; Real-world function; Functional decline; Cognitive aging (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10433-025-00852-2

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