Information Processing Across the Life Span: Using Eye Tracking to Predict Recall of Online Health-Related Information

• In Event: Aging and Health Communication

Abstract

Little research has focused on what precedes processing of health-related messages to predict recall of information, and whether age matters in this regard. To address this gap, this study investigates the relationship between attention and recall of information among younger and older adults. Using eye tracking, younger (< 65 yrs.) and older (≥ 65 yrs.) participants were exposed to a webpage consisting of text-only information, text with cognitive illustrations, or text with affective illustrations. When attention to text increased, older adults recalled more information, whereas younger adults did not. Younger adults paid more attention to cognitive illustrations than older adults, and recalled more information. Our study reveals that younger and older adults’ recall of health-related information is predicted by attention to different parts of online health-related information. These findings can be used to develop effective online health materials for both younger and older health consumers.

Authors

• Nadine Bol, ASCoR, U of Amsterdam

• Julia C.M. van Weert, ASCoR, U of Amsterdam

• Eugène F. Loos, ASCoR, U of Amsterdam

• Jennifer C. Romano Bergstrom, Fors Marsh Group

• Sifra Bolle, University of Amsterdam / ASCoR

• Ellen M.A. Smets, Academic Medical Center, U of Amsterdam