Based on previous research and duration of the exposure, it was expected that the cool conditions would impair some aspects of cognition (e.g., working memory and executive functioning) while having no effect or enhancing other aspects (e.g., reaction time for simple tasks).
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Therefore, in an effort to address some of these unknown aspects of long-term survival in cool conditions, this paper presents cognitive performance findings from a 24-hour experimental cold exposure protocol in which the participants were able to actively and voluntarily control the amount of physical activity (active engagement) required to maintain a level of performance perceived to be sufficient to complete a series of cognitive tests. More specifically, it is not known whether there are measures that can be employed by the survivors to mitigate the possible deficits in performance.
At present, it is not known whether the cognitive abilities required to perform vital survival tasks will be diminished during long-term cold exposure, thereby reducing the possibility of rescue and ultimately survival from a polar abandonment from ship or air. Previous research, conducted over significantly shorter periods, has shown that cognitive performance is impaired by environmental thermal stress. Although international regulations mandate the amount of food, water, and equipment International Maritime Organization (IMO) (2002): guidelines for ships operating in Arctic ice-covered waters (I:∖CIRC∖MSC∖1056-MEPC-Circ399), these supplies are only required to last for three days. It has been reported that a mass rescue operation in support of an evacuation of a cruise vessel in Arctic waters would require approximately five days to complete.
This recommendation should be taken into consideration during future research and when considering guidelines for mandatory survival equipment regarding cognitive performance.Ĭoast Guard assist/transferred to another ship Based on the results, it is recommended that survivors who are waiting for rescue should be encouraged to engage in mild physical activity, which could have the benefit of maintaining metabolic heat production, improve motivation, and act as a distractor from cold discomfort. Results showed minimal changes in CTB performance regardless of exposure time. Despite the active engagement, test conditions were sufficient to significantly decrease T c after exposure and to eliminate the typical 0.5–1.0☌ circadian rise and drop in core temperature throughout a 24 h cycle. Participants (recruited from those who have regular occupational exposure to cold) were instructed that they could freely engage in minimal exercise that was perceived to maintaining a tolerable level of thermal comfort. Core temperature ( T c) and cognitive test battery (CTB) performance data were collected from eight participants during 24 hours of cold exposure (7.5☌ ambient air temperature).
Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore cognitive performance during prolonged cold exposure. Survivor of a ship ground in polar regions may have to wait more than five days before being rescued.
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