Author:
Chwiesko Caroline,Janecek John,Doering Stephanie,Hollearn Martina,McMillan Liv,Vandekerckhove Joachim,Lee Michael D.,Ratcliff Roger,Yassa Michael A.
Abstract
The mnemonic discrimination task (MDT) is a widely used cognitive assessment tool. Performance in this task is believed to indicate an age-related deficit in episodic memory stemming from a decreased ability to pattern-separate among similar experiences. However, cognitive processes other than memory ability might impact task performance. In this study, we investigated whether nonmnemonic decision-making processes contribute to the age-related deficit in the MDT. We applied a hierarchical Bayesian version of the Ratcliff diffusion model to the MDT performance of 26 younger and 31 cognitively normal older adults. It allowed us to decompose decision behavior in the MDT into different underlying cognitive processes, represented by specific model parameters. Model parameters were compared between groups, and differences were evaluated using the Bayes factor. Our results suggest that the age-related decline in MDT performance indicates a predominantly mnemonic deficit rather than differences in nonmnemonic decision-making processes. In addition, this mnemonic deficit might also involve a slowing in processes related to encoding and retrieval strategies, which are relevant for successful memory as well. These findings help to better understand what cognitive processes contribute to the age-related decline in MDT performance and may help to improve the diagnostic value of this popular task.
Funder
National Institute on Aging
Publisher
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Subject
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience,Cognitive Neuroscience,Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
Cited by
3 articles.
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