Abstract
The effect of verbal to visual code switching training on working memory performance was investigated in individuals aged 63 and older. During verbal working memory task performance, the training group (n = 25) was introduced to a verbal to visual code switching strategy while the control group (n = 25) was not exposed to such a strategy. Working memory recognition accuracy was enhanced only in the training group. To explore the neural substrates underlying these strategy effects, fMRI was used to measure brain activity in both groups during working memory task performance before and after an attention training period. In a comparison between pre- and post-training sessions, results showed increased activation in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Relative to the control group, the post-training group exhibited increased activation in the left and right inferior parietal lobules (IPLs) and right superior parietal lobule (SPL). These findings suggest that use of a verbal to visual code switching strategy may assist older individuals in the maintenance of information in working memory.
Highlights
Working memory serves simultaneous information, storage, and processing functions (Baddeley, 1986)
INCREASING anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) RECRUITMENT In the present experiment, we found relatively scarce ACC activation during the pre-training reading span test (RST), and these results were in accordance with previous findings in older adults (Otsuka et al, 2006)
Enough, ACC activation significantly increased in the post-training RST, likely due to the effects of training
Summary
Working memory serves simultaneous information, storage, and processing functions (Baddeley, 1986). Based upon Baddeley’s multi-component model of working memory (Baddeley, 2003), we introduced for the first time a unique training task that required participants to switch attention from verbal to visual images, (i.e., switching from phonological information to visuo-spatial information), with the intention that this approach would strengthen the executive control function of working memory in older adults. To investigate the neural substrates underlying such training effects, we measured fMRI activation while participants performed a working memory task (the RST) before and after the training period We hypothesized that this training of attention switching from verbal to visual images activated brain regions related to attentional control.
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