How does cognition change as we get older? Is the pattern of cognitive change in advanced age comparable across cognitive domains such as executive functioning, memory, and social cognition? How are these changes reflected in changes at the level of brain structure and function? Finally, how can we understand pathological ageing conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia from a neuropsychological and cognitive neuroscientific perspective? In this module you will learn about different theories of cognitive ageing and apply these to understanding healthy and pathological ageing and critiquing evidence on methods of slowing or preventing the ageing process. Additionally you will learn from individuals with pathological ageing conditions and also how clinical psychology/clinical neuropsychology benefits from ageing research and provides tailored assessments and therapies for older adults.
Lecture 16, Workshop 16
The module is optional for the following courses
MSc in Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology
MSc Clinical Psychology
MSc Developmental and Educational Psychology
Report. Assessment Details: Seminar Report 1500 words worth 50%.
Examination. Assessment Details: Multiple Choice and/or Short Answer Questions 2 hours worth 50%.
Reassessment Method: Like for Like
• Ravdin, L. D., & Katzen, H. L. (2012). Handbook on the Neuropsychology of Aging and Dementia. Springer Nature: Switzerland, ISBN 978-3-319-93497-6 (e-book). Key journal articles will be added and updated annually. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages (https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html).
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Explain the impact of healthy ageing on cognitive functioning
2) Identify and define the neuropsychological profile associated with pathological ageing conditions
3) Interpret how psychological theory and methodology relate to how we understand age-related changes in cognition and neural processes
4) Critically evaluate research on healthy and pathological ageing
5) Analyse the link between research and clinical practice
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