Self-reported memory compensation: similar patterns in Alzheimer's disease and very old adult samples

Evidence pertaining to self-reported use of memory compensation techniques was collected using the Memory Compensation Questionnaire (MCQ). Five forms of everyday memory compensation were evaluated: (a) external memory aids, (b) internal mnemonic strategies, (c) investing and managing processing time, (d) applying more effort, and (e) reliance on human memory aids. The sample was derived from the Kungsholmen Project in Stockholm, Sweden, and consisted of (n = 85) healthy older adults (M age = 81.80 years; M MMSE = 28.34) and (n = 21) diagnosed Alzheimer's Disease (AD) patients (Mage = 81.80 years; M MMSE = 23.55). Participants were tested on two occasions, 6 months apart. Results showed that the MCQ was a largely reliable instrument in these two groups. Moreover, we observed substantial sample similarity in frequency of using the five forms of everyday memory compensation techniques. The healthy sample reported using the external techniques more than the AD sample. Over the 6-month interval, however, AD patients differentially increased their use of others to assist them in everyday memory performance. Results are interpreted in terms of insight into changes in memory skills and inthe implementation of effective memory support systems.