Related Experiment Videos
Subjective memory complaints and personality traits in normal elderly subjects
T Hänninen1, K J Reinikainen, E L Helkala
1Department of Neurology, University of Kuopio, Finland.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|January 1, 1994
Summary
In older adults, subjective memory complaints do not align with objective memory test results. Instead, memory concerns are linked to personality traits and emotional states, not actual cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Subjective memory complaints are common in the elderly.
- The relationship between subjective memory complaints and objective memory performance is not fully understood.
- Personality traits and affective states may influence the perception of memory decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between objectively measured memory functions and subjective memory complaints in older adults.
- To determine if personality traits or affective states affect subjective memory complaints.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study comparing two groups of elderly individuals (aged 67-78) from Kuopio, Finland.
- Memory function was assessed using Benton's visual retention test and the Wechsler Memory Scale.
- Subjective memory complaints, personality traits (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory), and affective state (Geriatric Depression Scale) were evaluated.
Main Results:
- No significant correlation was found between objective memory performance and subjective memory complaints.
- Individuals with pronounced memory complaints exhibited higher levels of somatic complaints, anxiety about health, and lower self-perceived competence.
- These findings suggest a disconnect between perceived and actual memory decline.
Conclusions:
- Subjective memory complaints in healthy older adults are more strongly associated with personality traits and affective state than with objective memory performance.
- Psychological factors may play a significant role in how individuals perceive their memory abilities as they age.