Age Differences in Dual Information-processing Modes

© 2008 American Cancer Society D0I10.1002lcncr. 23944 Age differences in affective/ experiential and deliberative processes have impor­ tant theoretical implications for cancer decision making, as cancer is often a dis­ ease of older adulthood. The authors examined evidence for adult age differences in affective and deliberative information processes, reviewed the sparse evidence about age differences in decision making, and introduced how dual process the­ ories and their findings might be applied to cancer decision making. Age-related declines in the efficiency of deliberative processes predict poorer-quality deci­ sions as we age, particularly when decisions are unfamiliar and the information is numeric. However, age-related adaptive processes, including an increased focus on emotional goals and greater experience, can influence decision making and potentially offset age-related declines. A better understanding of the mechanisms that underlie cancer decision processes in our aging population should ultimately allow us to help older adults to better help themselves. Cancer 2008;113(12 suppl):3556-67. © 2008 American Cancer Society.