Age-related differences in the acquisition, utilization, and extension of a spatial mental model

The acquisition, utilization, and extension of a spatial mental model were assessed for young and older adults. The model consisted of a map with nine buildings. In acquisition, 91% of the young adults and 62% of the older ad ults were able to acquire the mental model as determined by a strict criter ion. There were age differences ill trials required to reach criterion. How ever, once acquired the older adults were able to utilize their mental mode l as well as the young adults, with the exception of questions that were ta xing on working memory. Both age groups were also able to extend their ment al model to 16 buildings, and then utilize this extended model. Individual differences in working memory and fluid intelligence were related to succes sful acquisition of the mental model.