BIO

I’m currently a sophomore at Florida State University pursuing a major in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience as well as a minor in chemistry. I am committed to lifelong learning and collaboration and dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving landscape of medicine.

Working Memory VS Spatial Navigation Performance

Abstract

Spatial navigation (SN) is a fundamental cognitive skill crucial for daily activities, such as driving, shopping, and even navigating familiar environments (Garden et al., 2002). Working memory (WM), the cognitive system responsible for temporarily storing and manipulating information, has been identified as a crucial component influencing SN performance (Solari and Hangya, 2018; Garden et al., 2002). WM itself is susceptible to age-related decline (Oberauer, 2005; Rhodes et al., 2022). Thus, understanding the relationship between WM and SN, particularly in the context of aging, holds substantial importance. This study aims to investigate the association between WM and SN performance, with a specific focus on age-related differences. Participants will be recruited through the Florida State University Psychology Department and Institute for Successful Longevity. The study will utilize standardized tests to assess both WM and SN abilities. WM will be evaluated using tasks requiring the retention and manipulation of information over short periods, while SN will be assessed through tasks involving spatial orientation and route finding in simulated environments, including the North-South-East- West (NSEW) assessment and a Left/Right simulation. Participant recruitment is underway, and data collection has not commenced. The outcomes of this research will shed light on WM and SN across various age groups, providing insights into cognitive aging processes. These findings may offer insights into predicting Alzheimer's disease onset, aiding in early intervention strategies.

Keywords: Navigation, Memory, Alzheimers