Mental rotation and age reconsidered

Abstract

Research has established that subjects required to identify tilted patterns do so by first rotating them mentally into an upright position. Gaylord and Marsh (1975) found that the rate of mental rotation of elderly subjects was 84% slower than young subjects. Using simpler patterns and college-enrolled "elderly," Jacewicz and Hartley (1979) found no age difference in rotation rates. Using Jacewicz and Hartley's patterns, and a subject sample more similar to Gaylord and Marsh's, the present study found that although absolute rates were increased, an age-decline of 96% was still in evidence.