EXPLORING DELIBERATE PRACTICE TO REDUCE AGE-RELATED PERFORMANCE DIFFERENCES IN A COMPLEX TASK
2024
Reducing Age Differences in Video Game Performance
Sample size: 52
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Michael Prevratil, Neil Charness, Walter Boot
Primary Institution: Florida State University
Hypothesis
Can age-related differences in complex task performance be overcome with simple behavioral interventions?
Conclusion
Older adults performed significantly worse than younger adults in a complex video game, but these performance differences can potentially be improved with targeted behavioral interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults performed significantly worse on Total score and three of four subscore metrics.
- Older adults held control inputs for twice as long compared to younger adults.
- Older adults primarily used a less effective strategy compared to younger adults.
Takeaway
Older people had a harder time playing a video game than younger people, but with some practice, they can get better.
Methodology
Participants played a complex video game and completed cognitive tests and interviews.
Participant Demographics
Older adults (M age = 71) and younger adults (M age = 19.1) were included in the study.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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