Research has shown that keeping minds active has been linked to weaker declines in cognitive abilities with aging. Hence, computer-based cognitive training programs that facilitate intense, daily, cognitive practice may help older adults to maintain and improve their cognitive functioning. A paper in a recent issue of GeroPsych: The Journal of Gerontopsychology and Geriatric Psychiatry describes an internet-based training environment for the elderly that includes tasks of perceptual speed, episodic memory, and working memory. It was implemented as platform-independent internet-based testing software and used in the COGITO stud y to investigate intra-individual variability and plasticity in 101 younger (age 20–31) and 103 older (age 65–80) adults across an average of 100 daily practice sessions. Observations from this study and retrospective self-report evaluations demonstrate the program’s feasibility and acceptance among participants. The implications suggest a growing need for widespread availability of cognitive training programs to slow mental aging. 

For the abstract .