Imagine your brain is a collection of puzzle pieces, each piece representing a different aspect of your cognition. In a recent study, researchers investigated whether the Block design subtest of the Wechsler Adults Intelligence Scale could serve as a non-verbal key to unlock the puzzle of cognitive reserve. They recruited 391 participants without cognitive impairments and examined the association between the Block design subtest and the Information subtest (a verbal proxy of cognitive reserve), as well as their association with a Cognitive Reserve Questionnaire. The study found that the Block design subtest was positively correlated with both the Information subtest and the questionnaire, suggesting that it could be a reliable non-verbal measure of cognitive reserve. Furthermore, higher scores in the Block design subtest helped counteract the negative effects of aging on specific cognitive domains, similar to the results observed with the Information subtest. These findings imply that the Block design subtest has the potential to be a valuable tool for assessing cognitive reserve in individuals regardless of their verbal abilities.
ObjectivesTo investigate the potential of the Block design subtest of the Wechsler Adults Intelligence Scale as a non-verbal proxy of cognitive reserve.MethodA total of 391 cognitively unimpaired participants were included in this study. The association between the Block design subtest and the Information subtest (an established verbal proxy of cognitive reserve) from the WAIS, as well as the association of the two subtests with a Cognitive Reserve Questionnaire (CRQ) were tested. In addition, multiple linear regression models were conducted to investigate the association of the Block design and Information subtests with cognitive performance. The capacity of the Block design subtest to minimize the negative effect of an older age over cognitive performance was also assessed and this effect was compared with that of the Information subtest. The four cognitive domains included were: verbal memory, visual–visuospatial memory, executive-premotor functions and processing speed.ResultsThe Block design subtest correlated positively with both the Information subtest and the CRQ. A statistically significant association was observed between the Block design subtest and all four cognitive domains. Higher scores in the Block design subtest minimized the negative effect of aging on the cognitive domains of visual–visuospatial memory and executive-premotor functions, in a similar way to the results obtained for the Information subtest.ConclusionThe Block design subtest is significantly correlated with two established proxies of cognitive reserve: it correlates with cognitive performance and high scores in Block design have the capacity to minimize the negative effect of an older age on cognitive performance. Therefore, the results suggest that the corrected Block design subtest could be considered as a non-verbal proxy of cognitive reserve.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.