Edna, age 71, has good pronunciation but struggles with spelling and frequently forgets words. These symptoms may indicate what?

The symptoms described in this scenario—good pronunciation combined with difficulties in spelling and frequent word retrieval challenges—are indicative of issues related to inadequate control processes. In the context of cognitive development and aging, control processes are strategies we use to manage and direct our cognitive resources, including memory retrieval and comprehension.

While normal aging does involve some decline in cognitive abilities, such as processing speed and memory, the fact that Edna can still pronounce words well suggests that her underlying language skills are intact. Struggling with spelling and word recall points to a potential breakdown in the executive functioning and control processes, which are responsible for regulating thoughts and actions in cognitive tasks.

Cognitive decline due to dementia would typically present more severe deficits, including profound memory loss and disorientation in addition to language problems. While stress can affect cognitive functioning as well, it generally leads to more temporary issues rather than chronic struggles with spelling and word retrieval.

Thus, Edna's experience aligns more closely with inadequate control processes relevant to her age and cognitive function, making this the most appropriate interpretation of her symptoms.