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Journal of Aging and Health
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Obituary

Visual Function and Cognitive Speed of Processing Mediate Age-Related Decline in Memory Span and Fluid Intelligence

Olivio J. Clay, PhD

University of Alabama at Birmingham, oclay{at}uab.edu

Jerri D. Edwards, PhD

University of South Florida

Lesley A. Ross, PhD

Australian National University

Ozioma Okonkwo, MA

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Virginia G. Wadley, PhD

University of Alabama at Birmingham

David L. Roth, PhD

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Karlene K. Ball, PhD

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between sensory and cognitive decline, particularly with respect to speed of processing, memory span, and fluid intelligence. In addition, the common cause, sensory degradation and speed of processing hypotheses were compared. Method: Structural equation modeling was used to investigate the complex relationships among age-related decrements in these areas. Results: Cross-sectional data analyses included 842 older adult participants (M = 73 years). After accounting for age-related declines in vision and processing speed, the direct associations between age and memory span and between age and fluid intelligence were nonsignificant. Older age was associated with visual decline, which was associated with slower speed of processing, which in turn was associated with greater cognitive deficits. Discussion: The findings support both the sensory degradation and speed of processing accounts of age-related, cognitive decline. Furthermore, the findings highlight positive aspects of normal cognitive aging in that older age may not be associated with a loss of fluid intelligence if visual sensory functioning and processing speed can be maintained.

Key Words: processing speed • fluid intelligence • memory span • visual function • aging

Journal of Aging and Health, Vol. 21, No. 4, 547-566 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/0898264309333326
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