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Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
Memory training in the ACTIVE study: how much is needed and who benefits?
George W Rebok1, Jessica B S Langbaum, Richard N Jones
1Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Journal of Aging and Health
|October 30, 2012
Summary
Memory training improved memory performance over 5 years in older adults. However, booster sessions and adherence did not significantly impact these long-term memory gains.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive psychology
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cognitive decline is a significant concern in aging populations.
- Memory training interventions aim to mitigate age-related memory impairment.
- Long-term effects of memory training require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of memory training on cognitive performance.
- To examine the influence of booster training and adherence on memory outcomes.
- To identify factors associated with memory changes over time.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the memory training arm (n=629) of the ACTIVE trial.
- Latent growth modeling to assess changes in memory performance over 5 years.
- Inclusion of variables such as memory training, booster training, adherence, age, education, and self-rated health.
Main Results:
- Memory training demonstrated sustained improvement in memory performance through Year 5.
- Booster training and adherence to training did not significantly affect memory performance trajectories.
- Baseline age correlated with time-dependent memory decline, while higher education and self-rated health predicted greater memory improvement post-training.
Conclusions:
- Memory training is effective for maintaining long-term memory improvements in older adults.
- Booster training and adherence do not appear to counteract age-related memory decline.
- Individual characteristics like education and health status may influence training outcomes.
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