EFFECTS OF WORKING MEMORY TRAINING ON THE PACED AUDITORY SERIAL ADDITION TASK : a randomized, double blind, comparison group controlled study of generalization of implicit learning

Abstract: Working memory (WM) is essential for our ability to function cognitively. In this thesis we set out to examine the effects of computerized WM training in adults, through a randomized, comparison group controlled and double blind design. We measured this using a neuropsychological test called Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task (PASAT), which measures executive functions. The participants (N106), divided into four groups, young (20-30), old (60-70) and training-low dose. They trained with a computerized WM training program called Rememo© at home for five days a week during a period of five weeks. Before and after training they took the test, and then again after three months. The training gave significant improvement on PASAT performance in both young and old, and that the effect was significant at follow up. In conclusion, WM training has an effect even outside the specific tasks trained, which gives strong support to the theory of generalization and also support findings of plasticity in the aging brain.