Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the main hypothesis of the study, "Does Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Hearing Impairment Improve by Hearing Aid Use?", can be stated as follows: while hearing aids show significant results in terms of auditory improvement, there is no proof to suggest a related improvement or increase in cognitive ability as a result of the application of a hearing aid. The writer explains that the study refers to cognitive functions such as memory, attention, executive functioning, and processing speed. The writer also explains that it should be noted at the outset that this hypothesis presupposes a connection, albeit based on prior research sources, between hearing or hearing enhancements and cognitive functioning. Thus, this is an aspect that forms part of the critique in this analysis of the paper. The writer points out that it is also suggested that the methodology used to ascertain cognitive correlation is to some extent not adequate in terms of the complexity of determining quantitatively a definite link between hearing aids and improved cognition.

From the Paper
"The methodology used in this study was comparatively simple and conventionally straight-forward. In essence a relatively small number or participants were used in this study - which is also a point of contention with regard to the results and conclusion of this research. In total there were fifty-six participants (mean age 0/72.5) who were fitted with hearing aids were compared with 46 control participants (mean age 0/74.5) with an equivalent impairment, but who were not fitted with a hearing aid. The study took cognizance of a number of variables and factors that could influence the results of the experiment. These included neurocognitive tests after 12 months. However, it is also possible that these tests in terms of personality and individual psychological components were not sufficient. This aspect is possibly one of the reasons why the study did not return the expected correlation between hearing aids and cognitive improvement."

Tags:memory, attention, cognition, sensory, organ

Abstract
This paper defines cognition and explains the effects of aging on the brain in relation to memory, attention, metacognition, effects on language and the effects of aging on the executive function and finally cognitive function in very old age.

Introduction
Causes
Overview of Findings in Relation to Cognition and Aging
Cognitive Aging and Working Memory
Long-Term Memory
Environmental Support Indications
Health-Related Cognitive Function Impairment
Changes in Hormonal Levels Associated with Cognitive Decline
Medical Treatments Available
Dietary Changes
Lifestyle Changes
Nutritional Aids in Combating Cognitive Dysfunction
Summary
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Manifestations of the age-associated cognitive disorder may be in various forms including senility, loss of memory, Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Dementia is inclusive of diseases that involve nerve cell deterioration with loss in two complex behavior areas including language, memory, visual abilities, spatial abilities, and judgment."

Tags:mental, process, knowing, thinking, learning, judging, dysfunction, disturbances

Abstract
This paper explores the brain's role in cognitive functioning, with an emphasis on human behavior. The author highlights the case of Phineus Gage, a brain trauma victim who became a landmark study in neuroscience. The paper also discusses how injury to specific regions of the brain affects behavior. The role of these regions of the brain is further described. The paper concludes that cognitive science is still in its infancy as it strives to unearth new ways of understanding why people behave the way they do.

From the Paper
"The role of the brain in cognitive functioning and particularly the prefrontal cortex has been as interesting as it has been mysterious to cognitive science. Damage to posterior regions of the brain produce obvious functioning deficits such as visual deficits (Johnson, 2010); however, the effects of frontal brain lesions are more complex even though they are less devastating to patients (Oxford University Press, 2010). Cognitive and executive functions of this area of the brain reveal a high degree of sophistication with regard to cognitive functioning, but how the neural activity within the brain rises to human thought remains as a question. To find the answer one must look closely at neural activity."

Tags:neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, brain injury, brain trauma

Abstract
This paper examines the impact that cognitive training can have on older people. It begins by defining and explaining the mental process of cognition and the aspects associated with the decline of the cognitive function. The paper goes on to talk about Alzheimer's disease, one of the most common forms of dementia, and how research has indicated that the severity of Alzheimer's and other forms of senile dementia can be reduced considerably by means of cognitive training.

From the Paper
"Cognitive decline with aging has always been a matter of great concern for senior citizens. Senility and other forms of dementia are considered as inevitable part of the aging process. Alzheimer's disease for example affects an astounding 10-15% of American population in the age group of 65-75 and around 20% of those in the age group of 75 and above. Alzheimer's is the fourth leading disease in terms of the deaths caused. In fact statistics indicate that Alzheimer's disease alone accounts for more than half of the 1.3 million patients in the nation's nursing homes. [Roger B. Yepsen, 173]. However researchers indicate that the severity of the Alzheimer's and other forms of senile dementia can be reduced considerably by means of cognitive training. Cognitive training in adults has a significant role in the recuperation alongside the medications. Let us analyze the usefulness and the effectiveness of cognitive training in older adults in a little detail."

Tags:perceptions, recollections, thinking, ability, fluid, crystallized, intelligence, attention, progressive, speed, memory

Abstract
This paper examines the correlation between smoking and cognitive functioning in the elderly. The paper aims to determine if evidence exists to support the contention that smoking is detrimental to the mental health of elderly patients, or if this suggestion is unfounded. It generally discusses the health risks associated with smoking and then analyzes the literature with regards to the specific risks of smoking in elderly patients.

Outline:
Introduction
Health Risks
Literature
Health Promotion
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The research indicates that there is widespread concern for the impact that smoking has on the mental health of elderly patients. The literature indicates that there is currently no correlation between a decline in mental health and smoking, but that there are continued concerns for health risks that are known and have yet to be determined for all age groups. It is apparent, therefore, that continued research is significant to discover the impact that smoking has on all people and that in relation to the elderly smoking should be evaluated as part of the service delivery on a consistent basis."

Tags:addiction, cognition, Alzheimer's, disease, dementia, mortality

Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a principal cause of death and disability in young adults with consequences ranging from physical disabilities to long-term cognitive, behavioral and social disorders. Cognitive rehabilitation is a term used to refer to that branch of rehabilitation aimed at patients who are disabled primarily as a result of impairments in memory, judgment and other cognitive functions. This paper critically explores existing literature regarding cognitive rehabilitation for treatment of TBI patients to determine what types of cognitive rehabilitation are used, what the strengths and weaknesses of these types are and whether or not there are specific cognitive impairments that are more amenable to cognitive rehabilitation.

Paper Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Background of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Rationale of the Study
Research Questions
Definition of Terms
Limitations of the Study
Review of Literature
Overview of TBI
Cognitive Impairments: Conditions Linked to TBI
Costs of Cognitive Rehabilitation for TBI
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Strategies and Practices
Variables Influencing Cognitive Rehabilitation Outcomes
Conclusions to the Chapter
Research Design
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Inclusion Criteria
Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Holistic/Home-Based Therapy Studies
Computer-Assisted/Virtual Reality Studies
Research Questions and Hypothesis

From the Paper
"Whitlock and Hamilton (1995) suggest, however, that even the most severely brain damaged patient can recover cognitive functioning to a remarkable degree if admitted to an acute rehabilitation program as early as possible after the initial injury. Age, severity of injury, pre-TBI educational and/or functional level, and type of treatment provided were among the most significant variables influencing outcome. Several other studies of a similar nature - i.e., Katz and Alexander (1994), Lubusko, Moore, and Stambrook (1994), and Carney, Chesnut, Maynard, Mann, Patterson, and Helfand (1999) - found further support for the effects of these variables on the outcome of cognitive rehabilitation."

Tags:intracranial, neurochemical, MRI

Abstract
This paper focuses on a particular case study and examines what the mental and cognitive concerns are, based on crystallized and fluid memory research and the course textbook. The paper also focuses on what the optimal living situation would be for the subject, and how they could potentially thrive.

From the Paper
"There are cognitive, intellectual and functioning concerns for someone of "very old age," specifically Sylvia, the case study in question. Sylvia is a 78-year-old Catholic Latina from a middle class background. She is a mother and has a daughter and a son. She is currently living with her daughter and son in law who is unmarried with a baby. Thus, there are four generations living under one roof in Sylvia's household, which is a beneficial situation for both Sylvia and her kin. There are many cognitive concerns found in old age. These include behavioral slowing, which impairs motor responses; reaction time, problem..."

Tags:cognitive, age, geronotology

Abstract
The paper discusses four major developmental periods of cognitive psychology, specifically, that of introspection, behaviorism, structuralism and functionalism. The paper shows how each stage was a key milestone in the development of cognitive psychology.

Outline:
Introduction
Introspection
Behaviorism
Structuralism
Functionalism
Summary and Conclusion

From the Paper
"Introspection was first stated by Wilhelm Wundt in a 1907 paper that criticized the Wurzburg psychologists' thought experiments. Wundt stated four rules for the introspective practice as follows: (1) the introspective observer must be able to decide for himself at what point to begin observing the mental process under investigation; (2) the observer must be in a state of heightened attention; (3) each observation must be repeated again and again under the same conditions; and (4) circumstances under which the phenomenon occurs must be investigated by varying the accompanying experimental situations. Wundt's rules and practices for scientific introspection are related to contemporary debates in cognitive science over the nature and proper use of introspection."

Tags:introspection, behaviorism, structuralism, functionalism

Abstract
The paper looks at the research on the practice of cognitive modification in the special education setting and contends that more work needs to be done in order to truly evaluate the benefits of this therapy. The paper points out that the individual child must be assessed for his or her level of functioning and then be constantly monitored. The writer of the paper is of the opinion that the apparent long-term beneficial outcomes outweigh any difficulties with the implementation of this therapy.

From the Paper
"In theory, cognitive modification has been successful with the general population with average intelligence having no need for special assistance in educational objective. This area of therapy has been quite successful in maintaining long term result by changing the way one thinks about him or herself, and their beliefs about the world at large. It has helped to improve self- efficacy and self esteem in individuals with emotional of psychological impairments as well as those undergoing treatment for substance abuse and addictions. It accomplishes this through several methods that help to change Negative Automatic Thoughts (NATS) so that there is developed a more positive attitude and outcome for an individual. (Neenan & Dryden, 2004)"

Tags:play, skills, cognition

Abstract
This paper explains that, as a therapist, the writer prefers to focus on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) because this approach encourages counselors to be honest with clients as well as with themselves. The overall goals of counseling and the characteristics of the client-counselor relationship are presented in the paper. The writer describes that CBT procedures of open therapy, active talking and other ways to overcome the perceived maladjustment of the client.

Table of Contents:
Beliefs about Personality
Goals of Counseling Process
My Function as a Therapist
Characteristics of Client-Counselor Relationship
Procedures and Techniques

From the Paper
"The overall goal is the recovery of the client. Recovery is about counseling, but it is also about empowerment. Counseling can also help individuals with their problems and overcoming adversity, but as seen, a lot of the goals of the process focus mainly on recovery based interventions as a primary way of treating a given disorder, rather than counseling or pharmacology. Recovery is less concerned from this perspective, with treating the episodes and preventing them effectively than it is with helping the individual cope with their disorder in terms of dealing with problems in life that are created by it."

Tags:regulation, recovery, empowerment, process, empathy