Do Scores on an Attention Test Predict Scores on Executive Function Tests?

Abstract

Cognition encompasses many different abilities, including attention and executive functions. Yogev-Seligmann et al. [1] define attention as the ability to receive a stimulus and correctly respond to the stimulation. In essence, individuals orient and alert to stimuli [2,3] and decide if the focus should continue to be processed or ignored [4]. Several different types of attention exist including selective, divided, sustained, and alternating attention [2,5]. Selective attention is described as the ability to concentrate on a certain stimulus (e.g., auditory, visual) and suppress irrelevant factors [6,7]. Gaspelin Purpose: This study sought to determine if younger and older adults’ scores on the Attention Process Test predicted scores on the Behavioral Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome and Functional Assessment of Verbal Reasoning and Executive Strategies.