Cognitive correlates of numerical abilities in aging

The level of cognitive functions related to mathematical ability declines in the aging process. Moreover, studies show that dysfunction in numerical abilities can be a predictor of dementia. One of the numerical competence that can be studied in this area is the numerosity estimation ability, which is the basis for more complex mathematical operations, such as addition or multiplication. The purpose of the study was to test the relationship between different areas of cognitive functioning and selected numerical competence. The study participants were 72 elderly people (M = 71.00, SD = 4.90), with no visual/hearing impairment or diagnosis of neurological or psychiatric diseases. The level of cognitive functioning (memory, attention, executive functions) was examined using psychological tests and computer-based methods. The level of numerical abilities (e.g., numerosity estimation, mathematical operations) was measured using computer tasks designed within the project. The conducted analyses revealed a number of significant relationships between numerical competences and cognitive functions. In particular, more complex abilities, such as multiplication and subtraction, were more often associated with cognitive resources (especially with visual memory and executive functions). The results of regression analyses showed that the level of tested numerical competences is explained by cognitive abilities in a range of 23 to 42%. The results of the study showed numerous associations between cognitive functioning and proficiency in comparing or operating numbers. This shows that the numerical skills may be valuable both in diagnostic and therapeutic processes conducted among the elderly but further research in this area is needed.