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Editorial: subjective perceptions of memory functioning in old age - nature, correlates, and developmental
1Institute of Psychology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany.
Gerontology
|March 21, 2015
Summary
Subjective memory complaints are linked to actual memory performance, but also influenced by mood and personality. Self-reports may not always align with objective memory tests in neurocognitive disorders.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuropsychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Subjective memory complaints are key in diagnosing neurocognitive disorders.
- Existing research on subjective memory's link to objective functioning is ongoing.
- The influence of factors like depression on memory perception requires further investigation.
Discussion:
- Changes in subjective memory perceptions correlate with changes in memory performance.
- Personality traits and depressive symptoms modulate the association between subjective and objective memory.
- Factors beyond memory, such as functional health and control beliefs, impact memory perceptions.
Key Insights:
- Subjective memory perception is influenced by mood, personality, and health beliefs.
- Self- and informant-reports of memory difficulties may not correlate with objective performance.
- Distinguishing between healthy individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment or dementia using subjective reports is challenging.
Outlook:
- Future research should focus on longitudinal, multivariate studies of subjective memory.
- Experience sampling methods can elucidate the mechanisms behind subjective memory associations.
- Integrating subjective and objective measures is crucial for understanding neurocognitive health.
