Age differences in retention as a function of learning.

The hypothesis that observed age-related decrements in recall scores derive primarily from degree of acquisition rather than from retention deficits per se was investigated. 40 elderly and 30 young Ss learned 9 paired associates under equal learning opportunity, learning to criterion or overlearning conditions. Retention was measured at 20 min. and 1 wk. Elderly Ss learned less on equal exposure and required more trials to criterion, but once having learned the material retained it as well as young Ss. Trials beyond criterion did not enhance the retention scores of elderly Ss and may have introduced negative motivational factors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)