Executive functions in older adults of various level of educational needs

In old age the decrease of cognitive performance connected with natural ageing processes is observed. The deterioration primarily affects memory and attention functions (Jagodzińska, 2008; Oberauer, 2006). It was indicated that the level of cognitive competences is strongly connected with learning (Brooks, Weaver, Scialfa, 2006). People in old age who are more intellectually active have less problems in cognitive functioning (Jagodzińska, 2008). The article presents results of studies conducted to verify hypothesis concerning the relation between the level of educational needs and efficiency of their executive functions. 25 people, aged 71-88, participated in the study. Educational needs and four aspects of executive functions: plasticity, inhibition, working memory and planning were measured. Results confirms the relationship between educational needs of seniors and two aspects of executive functions: plasticity and working memory, while the most significant relations concerns plasticity