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Examining the relationship between subjective and objective memory performance in older adults: a meta-analysis
Jessica J Crumley1, Cinnamon A Stetler1, Michelle Horhota1
1Department of Psychology.
Psychology and Aging
|June 24, 2014
Summary
Older adults' beliefs about their memory are weakly linked to actual memory performance. This study found a small but significant correlation, cautioning against using subjective beliefs as a substitute for objective memory tests.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The relationship between subjective memory beliefs and objective memory performance in older adults is inconsistent in existing literature.
- Some studies report significant correlations, while others find null results, necessitating a quantitative synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively summarize the association between subjective memory and objective memory performance in older adults.
- To identify moderators that influence the strength of this relationship.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing data from 53 studies involving normatively aging older adult samples.
- Moderator analyses examined factors such as age, education, gender, depression, and characteristics of memory measures.
Main Results:
- A small but statistically significant positive correlation (r = .062) was found between subjective and objective memory.
- Age, education, gender, depression symptoms, and the nature of memory measures significantly moderated this association.
Conclusions:
- Subjective memory beliefs in older adults show a small, reliable association with objective memory performance.
- Relying solely on general subjective memory beliefs is not recommended; objective assessments are crucial for evaluating memory function.
