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ERIC Number: ED234314
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1981-Nov
Pages: 18
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Improving Memory in the Aged.
Richardson, Linda M.; Pratt, Mary Alice
This paper reports the results of an evaluation of a didactic-experiential program designed to improve memory functioning in healthy older adults with memory complaints, and to allay their concerns (in this case, largely unfounded) about the decline of their memory. The 7-week workshop met weekly for 2 hours, each session consisting of a lecture on one aspect of memory function and aging, and practice of a memory-enhancing strategy. The sample consisted of 13 older adults, 12 females and 1 male, with a mean age of 70.9 years. On pretesting, participants reported moderate concern about the adequacy of their memory despite demonstrating accurate recall of recent and remote information. Additionally, they evidenced moderate life satisfaction and mild depression. After completing the program, participants showed a decline in worry about their memory and a slight increase in their life satisfaction and mood. Moreover, participants' satisfaction with the program was high. Results of this preliminary study suggest that memory concerns of older adults can be alleviated and morale improved by the provision of factual information about memory and aging and by instruction in specific techniques for improving memory performance. (Author)
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC. Div. of Nursing.
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Gerontological Society of America (Toronto, Ontario, Canada, November 8-12, 1981).