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Response to memory training and individual differences in verbal intelligence and state anxiety
J A Yesavage1, J Sheikh, E D Tanke
1Geriatric Research Educational and Clinical Center, Palo Alto VA Medical Center, CA 94304.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1988
Summary
This study identifies key factors predicting success in memory training for older adults. Vocabulary skills predict response to mnemonic and elaboration techniques, while anxiety levels predict response to mnemonic and relaxation methods.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Memory training is effective for age-related memory decline in the elderly.
- Individual responses to memory interventions vary significantly.
- Identifying predictors of treatment response can optimize memory enhancement strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify individual attributes predicting differential response to two memory training programs.
- To investigate the role of cognitive and affective factors in memory training outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Study involved 40 elderly volunteers undergoing two types of memory training.
- One group received training combining mnemonics and verbal elaboration.
- The other group received training combining mnemonics and relaxation techniques.
- Cognitive assessments (WAIS vocabulary) and anxiety inventories (Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) were administered.
Main Results:
- Performance on the WAIS vocabulary subscale correlated with response to the mnemonics and verbal elaboration treatment.
- Scores on the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory correlated with response to the mnemonics and relaxation treatment.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive abilities, specifically vocabulary, are important for predicting success with certain memory enhancement techniques.
- Anxiety levels are a key factor in determining the effectiveness of relaxation-based memory interventions.
- Personalized approaches to memory training can improve outcomes for the elderly.