Measurement of executive function: considerations for detecting adult age differences.

This review considers the validity and suitability of neuropsychological and other tests of executive function for the detection of adult age differences in executive function. Executive function is typically assessed using tests which have been found to be sensitive to frontal lobe dysfunction because theory links executive function with the frontal lobes. However, any age-related decline in executive function is expected to be mild, or sub-clinical, compared to the deficits shown among those with frontal lesions. Therefore, in order to detect the type of mild executive dysfunction expected among older adults we need to employ tests sensitive enough to detect any age-related deficit, yet which are not too stressful or tiring for older adults to perform. This review discusses some commonly used neuropsychological tests of executive function as well as tests devised to assess theoretical aspects of executive function. Indications are given throughout as to which tests appear to be most suitable for detecting age differences in executive function.