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Novel naturalistic actions (NNAs) are multi-step, goal-directed actions involving the manipulation of objects that are unfamiliar to a person prior to instruction. Experiment 1 investigated the cognitive processes involved with encoding and performing NNAs by selectively interfering with attention during viewing or production of a NNA using the dual-task paradigm (n = 27, healthy adults). Consistent with the central findings from the dual-task memory literature, dividing attention at viewing caused a relatively greater disruptive effect on NNA performance than selectively interfering with attention during enactment. A follow-up experiment (n = 24, healthy adults) increased difficulty of memory retrieval by having participants verbally describe previously viewed NNAs while concurrently performing a secondary task, and it revealed no significant differences between the effects of dividing attention on the verbal description and physical construction of NNAs. The implications of our findings for the processes mediating encoding and enactment of naturalistic actions were presented. As well, the utility of a dynamic technique of inducing error types normally found in neurologically impaired populations was discussed.

The findings provide preliminary evidence that the cognitive correlates of NA errors may not be as process pure as previously hypothesized in neuropsychological models. A more comprehensive understanding of the cognitive underpinnings of NAs in aMCI could lead to more effective intervention programs to promote functional autonomy and delay dementia onset. Furthermore, NAs may be administered in neurocognitive assessments to identify early changes in everyday functioning and facilitate differential diagnosis between healthy aging and aMCI.