Social cognitive change in late adulthood (2017-2021)

The ability to perceive and interpret social cues is a critical predictor of social competency and wellbeing. This project aims to develop and test a model of how normal adult ageing affects this fundamental capacity, and identify the most important determinants of any age-related changes. Because a key prediction is that those older adults who have the greatest difficulties perceiving and interpreting social cues will also have the poorest social function and well-being, a better understanding of the mechanistic factors that drive resilience and risk for these difficulties will have direct and important implications for Australia¿s growing older adult community.