A new frontier in spaced retrieval memory training for persons with Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

The objective of this pilot study was to investigate how a memory training technique called “Spaced Retrieval” (SR) might be effectively applied in helping persons with Alzheimer's disease improve their recall of recent events. Capitalising on the interdependence among spared and impaired memory systems, it was hypothesised that SR training with support at encoding and retrieval would facilitate the retention and recall of meaningful recent events. Eight participants with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or related disorder were recruited for this study. The study employed a quasi-experimental multiple baseline treatment design across participants, items, and behaviours. SR training was provided in three domains: Semantic, Prospective, and Episodic recent memory. The results show important training gains made by all participants across conditions at post-training follow-up. In the Episodic condition, participants were able to recall specific details about recent events following training. This study provides preliminary evidence that individuals with mild to severe cognitive impairment can learn and recall new episodic information through Spaced Retrieval training. If replicated, these findings would support the use of Spaced Retrieval as an intervention tool to help individuals maintain their functioning in the area of episodic recent memory.

Keywords:

• Alzheimer's disease
• Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Memory
• Spaced Retrieval training
• Rehabilitation
• Episodic
• Semantic
• Prospective

Acknowledgments

The author is grateful to the participants who contributed their time and energy to this study, and to Dr. Lynn Beattie (Clinic for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders, University of British Columbia Hospital) and the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia, who assisted in the participant recruitment process. I would also like to thank the following research personnel for their support in materials preparation, data collection, and/or data analysis: Julie Chang, Kathryn Pasquini, Mia Mosters-Benoit, and Lilian So. This research was funded by an operating grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.