Overview

Master of Memory helps older adults acknowledge that change in their memory function may be possible with training, practice, and basic lifestyle modifications.

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Andrew Crocker
Senior Extension Program Specialist

Master of Memory helps older adults acknowledge that change in their memory function may be possible with training, practice, and basic lifestyle modifications. Participants in the program demonstrated higher confidence levels in their ability to take steps to improve their memory functioning, reduction in negative attitudes related to memory and aging, and an increase in their understanding of risk factors that may be controlled to help memory function, including diabetes, depression, hearing loss, and vision loss.

Self-evaluation of memory function may be one of the most important aspects of memory in older adults. Research on memory has started to focus less on the mechanics of the brain and more on understanding how negative stereotypes older adults may hold about aging and memory function affect memory performance. Studies have shown that memory complaints, absent a diagnosable cognitive impairment, are more closely linked to personality variables, such as stress, anxiety, and/or depression, than objective memory performance. Strong stereotypes and actual deficits may combine to reduce self-efficacy leading to further deterioration of memory skills. As a consequence, older adults become victims to their own low expectations.

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