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Self-rating and objective memory testing of normal and depressed elderly
C Cipolli1, M Neri, E Andermarcher
1Institute of Human Physiology, University of Modena, Italy.
Aging (Milan, Italy)
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Depression and age negatively impact memory performance in older adults. Memory complaints correlate with performance, and these relationships differ between men and women.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuropsychology
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Memory functioning in elderly individuals is crucial for quality of life.
- Understanding the interplay between subjective memory assessment, objective performance, and mental health is vital.
- Depression is a common comorbidity in older adults and can affect cognitive functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between subjective memory (metamemory) and objective memory performance in the elderly.
- To examine the influence of depression levels on both subjective and objective memory measures.
- To explore potential gender differences in these relationships.
Main Methods:
- 180 elderly subjects (mean age 65.7 years) without cognitive impairment were recruited.
- Memory performance was assessed using the Randt Memory Test (RMT).
- Subjective memory was evaluated with the Sehulster Memory Scale (SMS), and depression with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).
Main Results:
- Both age and depression level showed negative correlations with RMT measures (Acquisition-Recall and Delayed Memory).
- Memory complaints (SMS scores) positively correlated with RMT performance.
- Multivariate analysis revealed age and depression as significant predictors, with gender-specific variations.
Conclusions:
- A close, though not identical, relationship exists between depression and memory functioning in older adults, varying by gender.
- Metamemory scores can reflect actual memory performance, irrespective of depression levels.