Abstract
Abstract Research has shown that diverse activity engagement has positive effects on cognitive functioning in older age. However, it is unknown whether the positive effect holds within persons across days and across people. We examined daily within-person association between activity diversity and working memory in older age and effects of potential moderators therein. We examined 16-day smartphone-based ambulatory assessment data from 150 older adults (aged 65+). Participants reported their present activities and completed working memory tasks seven times per day. Within persons, higher daily activity diversity was positively associated with higher daily working memory. Moreover, the prior day’s activity diversity led to that day’s higher working memory, but not vice versa. We did not find any moderating effects of age, education, or fluid and crystallized intelligence. Our results strengthen the evidence on the beneficial effect of activity diversity on cognitive performance. Results are discussed in the context of cognitive reserve theory.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
