Memory loss is one of the most prevalent problems associated with aging. Memory skills training programs have been effective in improving some aspects of memory functioning but the effects show limited transfer across tasks and they are short-lived. A growing body of evidence indicates that successful functioning requires not only skills, but also self-conceptions that foster effective use of these skills. The proposed research attempts to increase the generalizability of memory training across tasks and time through cognitive restructuring of self-conceptions of memory. Self-conceptions of memory include a set of beliefs concerning one's memory capabilities; the degree to which one can exercise control over one's memory; and whether aging results in irreversible memory loss. Using an experimental intervention design, young and elderly adults will be randomly assigned to memory training, cognitive restructuring, memory training with cognitive restructuring, a practice control group, or a no-contact control group. Cognitive restructuring focuses on instilling adaptive beliefs including greater perceived control and more functional attributional patterns regarding memory. The group receiving both cognitive restructuring and memory is expected to show greater transfer across memory tasks and more sustained effects than the memory training alone. This group is also expected to show the most adaptive changes in self-conceptions of memory, and these benefits are expected to be greater for the elderly than for the young. The information gained from this research will not only be useful for designing effective interventions to enhance memory functioning, but will also clarify the motivational and self-appraisal mechanisms involved in memory dysfunctions associated with aging. The long-term aim is to develop strategies for remediation and prevention of memory impairment, by addressing both memory ability and self- conception factors that govern memory performance.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01AG007790-01
Application #
3119092
Study Section
Human Development and Aging Subcommittee 1 (HUD)
Project Start
1988-08-01
Project End
1991-07-31
Budget Start
1988-08-01
Budget End
1989-07-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Brandeis University
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
616845814
City
Waltham
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02454
Riggs, K M; Lachman, M E; Wingfield, A (1997) Taking charge of remembering: locus of control and older adults' memory for speech. Exp Aging Res 23:237-56
Lachman, M E; Weaver, S L; Bandura, M et al. (1992) Improving memory and control beliefs through cognitive restructuring and self-generated strategies. J Gerontol 47:P293-9