Training to Enhance Adult Memory (TEAM): An investigation of the effectiveness of a memory training program with older adults

Abstract

Objective: Prior research examining the effectiveness of memory enhancement programs targeting both objective and subjective memory has yielded results with varying degrees of success. The current investigation aimed to contribute to the present body of memory training literature through the evaluation of an in-home memory enhancement program for older adults.

Method: Fifty-three community-dwelling older adults were assigned to either a memory enhancement condition or a minimal social support condition.

Results: Those in the memory enhancement condition had significant improvement in remembering names with faces and not misplacing household objects. Additionally, those in the memory enhancement condition also reported being more content with their memory, having fewer lapses in memory, greater use of mnemonic strategies, and were less bothered by memory complaints. Regression analyses indicated that neither levels of positive nor negative affect were predictive of participants’ objective and subjective memory at post-treatment.

Conclusion: Results of these analyses provide support for the use of memory enhancement programs to improve older adults’ ability to keep track of items, remember names and faces, and to also feel better about their memory ability.

Keywords:

• memory improvement
• intervention
• older adults

Acknowledgment

This study was funded by grants from the Center for Mental Health and Aging at the University of Alabama. We thank those who participated in this research and Adriana Yon, PhD, for her help during the data-collection phase of this study.