Cognitive plasticity in successful ageing: contributions from a learning potential assessment / Plasticidad cognitiva en el envejecimiento exitoso: aportes desde la evaluación del potencial de aprendizaje

Abstract Despite numerous studies on the subject of successful ageing, few studies address the issue from a learning potential (LP) perspective. In Latin America there is no empirical background describing LP in successful ageing. In this study, 157 elderly Argentines were categorized into ageing trajectories (successful, normal and pathological ageing) based on objective scores from autonomy level, cognitive performance and mood state scales. Subjects were assessed with classic neuropychological tests, a cognitive reserve scale and an LP test. The results show differences in LP and cognitive reserve according to different ageing trajectories. This study establishes a regional precedent of relevance in the study of LP in elderly people pursuing successful ageing. It also provides evidence of the usefulness of incorporating instances of delayed free recall and recognition in an episodic memory and LP test.