Effects of contextual interference on the memory of older females differing in levels of physical activity.

The acquisition and retention effects of contextual interference on a coincidence anticipation task over long retention intervals were investigated on older females (54 to 83 yr.) differing in levels of physical activity. Half of the subjects were regular participants in an exercise program for older adults. The other half did not participate in the program and through a self-report instrument indicated minimal involvement in physical activities. Active subjects recalled the tasks after 10 min. better than the less active subjects, but no differences were found at the longer intervals (1 wk. or 40 days). A significant interaction occurred between activity level and contextual interference in retention supporting Battig's (1979) views on memory. High contextual interference facilitated retention for active subjects. Responding to variable input over trials (high contextual interference) is considered by Battig to induce multiple and variable processing strategies which would facilitate retention. These results support a relationship between levels of activity and cognitive functioning of aged subjects.