Psychometric Properties and Age-Related Effects of the Combined Attention Systems Test

Abstract

Attention is a multifaceted cognitive process that is important for functioning in daily life. The study of attention commonly focuses on three networks: alerting, orienting, and executive control. Despite the rich literature surrounding attention, tools designed to independently assess the networks often conflate endogenous and exogenous modes of control. A novel measure, the Combined Attention Systems Test (CAST) was developed specifically to reflect this endogenous/exogenous distinction. This study aimed to 1) assess the psychometric properties of the CAST in a sample of healthy adults, and 2) explore whether attentional networks are affected by natural aging. Results from our study suggest that the CAST is a feasible, robust, and reliable measure of the attentional networks under both modes of control. Our assessment of aging effects on attention indicate that the endogenous mode of control is particularly vulnerable to aging, as all three endogenous networks showed a decline in performance with age.