Using serial position effects to investigate memory dysfunction in homeless and precariously housed persons

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Homeless individuals often experience memory impairment, but the specific cognitive processes involved are unclear.
• Understanding memory deficits in this population is crucial for effective interventions.
• Previous research has not fully explored the neuroanatomical basis of memory dysfunction in homeless adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the verbal memory serial position profile (primacy and recency effects) in homeless and precariously housed adults.
• To identify the neuroanatomical correlates of memory dysfunction in this population.
• To determine the nature of memory difficulties by examining specific memory components.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised to assess verbal memory and serial position effects in 227 homeless adults.
• Correlated serial position scores with measures of attention, processing speed, and executive functioning.
• Examined associations between regional brain volumes (hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) and memory performance.

Main Results:

• A diminished recency effect compared to the primacy effect characterized the memory profile.
• Memory scores correlated positively with sustained attention and cognitive control.
• Larger hippocampal volume linked to better primacy recall, while dorsolateral prefrontal cortex volume showed no significant association with recall.

Conclusions:

• Memory difficulties in homeless adults appear linked to executive control deficits, possibly due to compromised frontal lobe function.
• Findings suggest that cognitive rehabilitation strategies should target executive functions.
• Understanding these cognitive underpinnings is vital for supporting this vulnerable population.